Anuradhapura
Location
About
Sri Lanka's first ancient capital and sacred city containing the Sri Maha Bodhi tree — a cutting from the original Bodhi Tree — and monumental dagobas (stupas) among the tallest ancient structures on earth.
Significance
The oldest continuously inhabited Buddhist city in the world; the Sri Maha Bodhi is the oldest authenticated tree in the world (planted 288 BCE) and the most sacred object in Sri Lankan Buddhism.
History & Historical Arc
Capital from 4th century BCE to 11th century CE; center of Theravada Buddhism's spread to Southeast Asia; sacked by the …
Archaeological Notes
The Jetavanaramaya stupa (3rd c. CE) was once the third-tallest structure in the ancient world at ~122m; ongoing excavat…
Key Features & Structures
- Sri Maha Bodhi tree (planted 288 BCE)
- Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba
Visitor Information
Sacred City open daily; the Sri Maha Bodhi precinct requires modest dress. Located in the North Central Province, 205 km…
Related Figures
In the Bible
Source References
- UNESCO World Heritage List #200
- Mahavamsa (Sri Lankan chronicle)