Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, situated in the North Central Province, was the capital of ancient Ceylon, where the ancient places of worship are situated and is demarcated as the sacred city. Vijaya, the traditional first King of Ceylon came and settled in Tambapanni or Tammenna. His ministers founded settlements, giving them their own names. One such settlement was Anuradhagama (later renamed Anuradhapura) founded by Anuradha. Holding pride of place among the mammoth archeological sites in the world, Anuradhapura was not only the capital but the city most related to the development of Buddhism. Comprising gigantic temple complexes as the Maha Vihara, Jethavana, Abhayagiri and an inner city spreading in about 200 acres, the city’s archeological remains span about 14 sq. miles. These include some ruins of great architectural value and exquisite pieces of sculpture.