Anuradhapura
The city is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and is well known for its well preserved ruins of an ancient civilization. The city which is considered to be sacred among Buddhists is covered with Temples, Dagobas and Castles of the past.
Furthermore the city boasts of an Irrigation system which was initiated and then carried out by many a King which is considered as being way ahead of its time. The ruins of some of these magnificent creations are still standing today.
Polonnaruwa
A far greater and superior Irrigation system was created in the region by Parakramabahu the Great which to this day supplies much needed water for Paddy cultivation in the East of the country. A major attraction for all visitors to the area is the Parakrama Samudraya, a tank so vast that it is often mistaken for an ocean was created by the above King.
The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu the Great and the Lankathilaka temple are some of the other ruins that are found across the area.
Sigiriya
Sigiriya or “Lion Rock” was built by King Kasyapa and is considered to be one of the seven World Heritage sites of Sri Lanka. A popular tourist destination, Sigiriya is famous for its paintings (frescos). At present it consists of the remains of a range of gardens, reservoirs and other structures.
The rock fortress is located in the Matale district in the Central Province and and is further part of the cultural triangle with the above mentioned cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa completing it. |