Ancient Cities
Polonnaruwa
Circular Relic Chamber
The earliest reference to Anuradhapura, the first kingdom of Sri Lanka, goes back to 5th century BC. Since then, the kingdom has been shifted from one city to another for many reasons until 1815. These ancient cities and ruins have a wealth of attractions, including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Anuradhapura
Sri Lanka’s first capital, founded in the 5th century BC, was an example, par excellence, of a hydraulic Civilization. The great book on anthropochore named “History of the World “by Prof. Arnold J. Toynbee praised the ancient tank civilization of Anuradhapura, saying that it was a golden moment of the world’s history. The Inner-city excavation of Anuradhapura revealed archaeological evidence of the paddy cultivation and a horse breeding centre in Anuradhapura which belongs to the 9th century BC. It is also home to a cluster of historically interesting sights.
Polonnaruwa
Sri Lanka’s medieval capital (11-13C AD) rose to fame after the decline of Anuradhapura. Polonnaruwa shows the interesting blend of the influence of the south Indian Hindu culture in the Sinhala Buddhist art and architecture in the scattered shrines and monuments that are still revered daily by devotees. Among the many interesting places in Polonnaruwa; the Kings council chamber, the floral stone pillars of “Nissanka Latha Mandapaya”, the Royal Citadel, Kumara Pokuna (baths), the Thuparama with its original vaulted roof, the exquisite Circular Relic Chamber – lavished with moonstones, Guardstones, Lankathilaka the Image House, decorated balustrades and the must visit Gal Vihara (these sculptures can be considered as the glory of Polonnaruwa and the peak of its artistic architectural achievement). Polonnaruwa is also home to Thivanka Pilimage which houses a collection of beautiful medieval paintings.
Sigiriya
Built in 5th century AD by King “Kashyapa,” on a sheer-sided volcanic plug, rising 200 meters above the surrounding jungle, the Sigiriya Rock Palace Complex is possibly Sri Lanka’s most impressive attraction. Built 1600 years ago and known as the “Lion Rock” it was also a Royal Citadel. It’s a complex of buildings, part Royal Palace, part fortified town and water gardens on par with the best in the ancient world. It represents a magnificent and unique architectural feat of the ancient Sinhalese. In a sheltered pocket approached by a spiral stairway are the famous Sigiriya frescoes, the earliest surviving pictorial art of Sri Lanka. Remains of the foundations at the summit show that it was once covered with palaces, pavilions, ponds and audience halls. It is regarded as the 8th wonder of the ancient world.
Kandy
Situated 1500 feet above the sea level at the doorstep to the central hills. A charming culturally vibrant city which was the seat of government of the last Sinhalese Kingdom, until it was taken over by the British in 1815. Some aspects of the art and architecture of Kandy still survive in the living form. Seen from the hills above the lake, this architectural complex gives us a brilliant miniature image of what the dead capitals looked like and what the style and the character of the Sri Lankan civilisation. What brings sanctity to Kandy is the “Dalada Maligawa” which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. The temple is visited by locals and tourists alike, bearing flowers and incense daily throughout the day and night. Here, visitors can observe the Pooja (offerings), the ancient traditions of drumming and the sacred chanting, in honour of the sacred Tooth Relic, being performed three times each day. Kandy is also the location of the beautiful Esala Perahera, easily the most colourful pageant of Asia, held in July/August each year.
Galle
Situated in the southwest promontory, a beautiful town with the smell of the colonial flavour and examples of architecture and well-preserved fortifications. The old Dutch fort encompasses the old Dutch quarter and is far removed from the busy town just outside its walls. The Portuguese landed accidently in 1505 to Galle Harbour and built a fortress on the southwestern tip of town, when the Dutch seized the port in 1640, they fortified the walls, which survive to this day. In 1796 Galle was handed over to the British. Only a few ruins belong to the Portuguese period can be seen, but many buildings built by the Dutch and British have been well preserved.