Anuradhapura: The Ancient Capital of Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura, an ancient city in Sri Lanka, is one of the country’s most significant and historically rich locations. Known for its deep roots in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, Anuradhapura was the first capital of the island and served as the country’s political and religious center for over a millennium. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting pilgrims, tourists, and scholars alike, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization.

Historical Significance

Anuradhapura was established around the 4th century BCE by King Pandukabhaya. It rose to prominence as the capital under the reign of King Vijayabahu I in the 11th century, after being abandoned for several centuries during South Indian invasions. The city flourished as a center of Buddhism and became a focal point for religious and cultural development. The ancient city has since been recognized for its monumental structures, advanced urban planning, and the role it played in the spread of Theravada Buddhism.

The city’s most significant contribution to Buddhism is the Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred fig tree said to have been grown from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. This tree, which still stands today, is one of the oldest living trees with a known planting date in the world and is a major pilgrimage destination.

Architectural Wonders

The ruins of Anuradhapura span over an extensive area and are home to a wealth of architectural wonders, many of which date back to the 3rd century BCE. These include enormous stupas (Buddhist shrines), monastic complexes, tanks (man-made reservoirs), and royal palaces.

1. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
   The Ruwanwelisaya, also known as the “Mahathupa,” is one of the most revered stupas in Sri Lanka. It was constructed by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE and stands as a symbol of Sri Lankan Buddhist heritage. With its imposing white dome, the stupa remains an architectural marvel and a center of religious devotion.

2. Jetavanaramaya Stupa
   Another iconic structure in Anuradhapura is the Jetavanaramaya, which was once the tallest brick structure in the world, surpassing even the Great Pyramid of Giza in height. It was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century CE and is a testament to the city’s grandeur and engineering prowess.

3. Abhayagiri Monastery
   Established in the 2nd century BCE, the Abhayagiri Monastery was a major Buddhist monastic complex that attracted scholars and practitioners from all over Asia. The monastery complex consists of multiple structures, including stupas, monastic dwellings, and beautiful gardens.

4. Isurumuniya Temple
   The Isurumuniya Temple is a small but significant site in Anuradhapura. Its rock-cut temple houses ancient Buddhist sculptures and inscriptions. The most famous among them is the Isurumuniya Lovers, a stone carving depicting a royal couple, symbolizing eternal love.

5. Brahmi Inscriptions
   Among the numerous inscriptions found throughout Anuradhapura, the Brahmi script is particularly notable. These inscriptions are the oldest written records found in Sri Lanka and provide invaluable insight into the political, religious, and cultural life during the early centuries of the island’s history.

The Sacred City

Anuradhapura’s reputation as a sacred city stems from the numerous religious structures scattered across the site. The Sri Maha Bodhi, as mentioned earlier, is one of the most significant. The Bodhi tree is venerated by Buddhists, with the belief that it is the direct descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Pilgrims from all over Sri Lanka and beyond visit Anuradhapura to pay homage to this sacred tree.

The city’s sacred quadrangle (known as the Dalada Maligawa) houses several important shrines, including the Thuparamaya Stupa, which contains the relics of the Buddha’s right collarbone. The Lankarama Stupa is also part of the sacred complex, and each site is considered a center for deep spiritual reflection and meditation.

Infrastructure and Water Systems

Anuradhapura was a pioneer in urban planning, with advanced infrastructure that facilitated both agricultural prosperity and urban development. The city’s ancient water management system, including large reservoirs and tanks such as Tissa Wewa and Nuwara Wewa, were critical in sustaining its population during dry spells. The extensive network of canals, tanks, and ponds made Anuradhapura a self-sustaining metropolis, reflecting the advanced engineering skills of its inhabitants.

Decline and Rediscovery

Despite its early success, Anuradhapura fell into decline in the 10th century due to invasions by South Indian rulers, and the capital was eventually moved to Polonnaruwa. The city was abandoned, and its glory was forgotten for centuries. It was only rediscovered in the 19th century during colonial rule, when the British began archaeological excavations, leading to the rediscovery of its many treasures and relics.

Today, the city is carefully preserved, with efforts to maintain and restore its ancient monuments. Anuradhapura remains one of the most important archaeological and cultural sites in Sri Lanka, preserving the country’s rich Buddhist heritage and offering visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient kings and spiritual leaders.

Modern Anuradhapura

While Anuradhapura retains its spiritual and historical significance, it is also a thriving town that serves as a cultural and economic center in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is home to a growing population and modern amenities, yet it still holds on to its traditional values, with an ongoing respect for its religious and historical legacy.

Today, the city is visited by millions of tourists and pilgrims each year. The Anuradhapura Museum provides insight into the archaeological history of the city, displaying artifacts, statues, and relics from the ancient period. Local festivals, such as the Poson Festival, attract thousands of visitors, further cementing Anuradhapura’s reputation as a focal point of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.

Conclusion

Anuradhapura is not just an archaeological site but a living testament to the island’s rich cultural and religious history. Its ancient stupas, monastic complexes, and water management systems continue to inspire admiration, while the city’s spiritual significance remains undiminished. As Sri Lanka’s first capital, Anuradhapura played a pivotal role in shaping the island’s history, and it continues to serve as a symbol of the enduring power of faith, culture, and tradition.