If you want to dive into the depths of Sri Lanka's rich past, spend a day or two in Anuradhapura. The history recalls ancient traditions and ingenuity, and Anuradhapura had many. Take a trip to this historic city to learn more about the culture and achievements of the people of Sri Lanka.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Anuradhapura is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which is not surprising. The city is considered one of the oldest and most populous cities in the world. Archaeological findings date back to the 10th century B.C. E.
It was a proud old capital
Today Anuradhapura is one of the largest cities in Sri Lanka in the northern part of the Central Province. In the distant past it was an even more important town on the island. Anuradhapura had the honour of being the capital of the Kingdom of Rajarat. In fact it is believed that the city was the capital between the 4th century BCE. and the 11th century CE.
This is a house for an old fig tree
One of the main attractions of Anuradhapura is an old fig tree. This is known as Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This tree is said to belong to the legendary fig tree of Gaya Buddha in India.
The Buddha would have reached enlightenment in the shade of the original tree from Sri Maha Bodhi to Buddha Gaya. The people of Sri Lanka believe that the Anuradhapur tree grew because of the felling of the original tree, which was planted in 288 BC. C. This makes Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi over 2000 years old.
It has two skillfully designed ponds
The 1,500 year old twin ponds or Kuttam Pokuna are located in the gardens of Abhayagi Monastery. The pond irrigation system is quite advanced. It is often touted as one of the most advanced examples of hydraulic engineering that existed at the time.
King Aggabodhi commissioned the construction of these ponds in the 6th century AD for the monks of the monastery. Two ponds are about 130 feet and 90 feet long and are made of stone.
Has an old moonstone
Sandhakada Pahana, an old moonstone made of stone, also lives in Abhayagi Monastery. You only ask about the moonstone? It is a stone slab in the shape of a semicircle and complex sculptures. Moonstones are usually found at the entrance to Buddhist temples. This is from the 1st century B.C. C.
Observe a close-up of the lotus flower depicted in the center. Around it, many layers of animals are engraved on its face. Each of these creatures symbolizes different worldly concepts like birth, aging and death. The lotus on the other hand represents Nirvana. It is therefore believed that the moonstone symbolizes the overcoming of karma, temptation and the cycle of life and death. In Buddhism this means the path to enlightenment.
Interested in the city and its many historical wonders? Take some time for your itinerary to spend a few days there. An accommodation in Anuradhapur is easy to find and life in the city should not be expensive. If you are trying to keep a modest budget, take a look at these guest houses in Anuradhapur. They offer all the essential elements that are part of the Yoho promise. Namely things like WiFi, air conditioning, TV and breakfast.
While you are there, you can also visit other cities that are part of the cultural triangle.
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