Heritage
Sri Lanka is known officially as the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. is it a beautiful island country located in South Asia? The country is rich in cultural heritage, boasting a history that spans over 2,500 years. Sri Lanka’s heritage is shaped by its diverse ethnic groups, which include the Sinhalese, Tamils, Moors, Burghers, Malays, and others. Here are some key aspects of Sri Lanka’s heritage: Sri Lanka’s heritage is a unique blend of ancient traditions, religious practices, colonial influences, and vibrant cultural expressions. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore its historical sites, experience its rich traditions, and immerse themselves in its vibrant cultural tapestry.
Mihintale Temple
Mihintale is a historically significant location in Sri Lanka, known for its association with the introduction of Buddhism to the island. It is believed that Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka by Arahat Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka of India, who arrived in Mihintale in the 3rd century BC. Today, Mihintale remains an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a popular tourist destination due to its cultural and historical significance.
Polonnaruwa
Following the destruction of Anuradhapura by the Chola dynasty, Polonnaruwa became the capital of the eponymous kingdom under Vijayabahu I. Several Hindu temples and bronze sculptures remain from the period. The city saw its golden age in the 12th century under Parakramabahu I, when numerous Buddhist monuments and temples were constructed, including the Vatadage (pictured), a temple that used to house the relic of the tooth of Buddha. It declined in the 13th century.
Sigiriya
Sigiriya was the short-lived capital of King Kashyapa, who ruled between 477 and 495, after he had his father King Dhatusena killed. The city is built on and around the “Lion’s rock”, a 180 m (590 ft) granite volcanic plug. After the defeat of Kashyapa by his brother Moggallana I, the site was returned to Buddhist monks who had lived in the grottoes in the area earlier. Today, the site is in ruins, with parts of fortifications and buildings preserved, as well as frescos representing feminine figures. The style of these frescos was influential in the following centuries.
Sacred City of Kandy
Kandy was founded in the 14th century and served as the capital of the eponymous kingdom from 1592 to 1815, when the British entered it. It remains the religious Buddhist capital of Sri Lanka and a pilgrimage centre. Following the former tradition of moving the relic when changing the capital, the relic of the tooth of Buddha is stored in the Temple of the Tooth (pictured), with the current structure dating to the mid-18th century. Other monuments include the Royal Palace and several Buddhist temples.
Dambulla Cave Temple
The cave monastery is the largest and best preserved Buddhist complex in Sri Lanka and an important pilgrimage site. It has been inhabited by monks since the 3rd century BCE. It comprises five shrines constructed in natural caves. The shrines went through a series of renovations, the present form dates to the 18th century. They contain outstanding examples of religious art, including statues and wall paintings in the style of the Kandy art school.
Sri Pada (Sacred Foot Print Shrine)
Sri Pada, also known as Adam’s Peak, is a sacred mountain located in Sri Lanka. Standing at 2,243 meters (7,359 feet) tall, it is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims. The mountain is known for its distinct conical shape and is believed to be a holy site associated with different religious traditions.
Avukana Buddha statue
The Avukana statue is a standing statue of the Buddha near Kekirawa in North Central Sri Lanka. The statue, which has a height of more than 14 m (46 ft), depicts the Buddha with a hand raised in reassurance, a variation of the Abhaya mudra. The Avukana statue is one of the best examples of a standing statue built in Sri Lanka. It is now a popular tourist attraction
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka and a Buddhist spiritual centre. It was founded in the 4th century BCE. It was attacked by the Tamils in the 2nd century BCE and sacked by the Pandyas in the 9th century CE. The monuments were subsequently restored but the city was finally destroyed in 993
Ritigala - Sri Lanka's Hidden Monastic Ruins
Ritigala, located in Sri Lanka, is home to hidden monastic ruins that hold a fascinating historical significance. These ancient ruins provide a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage of the region and offer a serene and secluded setting for exploration and reflection.