Mannar, Sri Lanka: Unveiling the Rich Tapestry of History and Tranquility – By Bhanuka – eLanka Nestled along the pristine northwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Mannar welcomes travelers with open arms, offering a unique blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and serene landscapes. In this exploration, we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden treasures that make Mannar a captivating destination. Mannar’s historical significance is woven into the very fabric of the town. As a former trading hub, Mannar bears the influences of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, each leaving an indelible mark on its architecture and cultural identity. The Mannar Fort, standing proudly against the backdrop of time, serves as a silent witness to the town’s colonial past. Cultural diversity flourishes in Mannar, where different religious communities coexist harmoniously. From the Mannar Island Bird Sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds, to the revered Thiruketheeswaram Kovil and the historic ...

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Mihintale ancient Hospital – the oldest in the world? – By Arundathie Abeysinghe Established by King Sena II (853-887 AC) at *Mihintale around 853 A.D., the ancient hospital in the location is considered as the oldest in the world, although, consulting and healing have taken place in the location centuries before. According to inscriptions, Ayurvedic medicine has been practiced at Mihintale and the hospital has been maintained by Buddhist monks. The layout of the building (of the hospital) and discovery of a medical trough are also evidence that a hospital had existed at the site. The oldest archeological evidence of a hospital in Sri Lanka is within the ruins of Mihintale. The identification was based on a 10th century inscription at the site. According to the plan of the hospital, there had been 31 rooms and these rooms were arranged on a high platform. The consulting room, rooms for hot ...

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Of bear fights, forgotten forts, demons and more-by Randima Attygalle Source:ISLAND ‘And from the Peak and table-land That brave the vast dome’s immensity, From the tree- girt shore and the glittering sand, The emerald Island calls for me.’ The physician, antiquarian and wildlife lover, Dr. R.L. Spittel pays homage to our emerald-isle in his verse Hail Lanka. He is remembered today by Shaminda Silva through his latest compilation, Wilds of Lanka (Volume II). A decade since his first book ‘Wilds of Lanka’ (Volume1), dedicated to wildlife and several national parks, particularly Yala or Ruhuna National Park, the author brings to his readers its sequel which documents Wilpattu National Park and several other historic sites in the northern plains of the island including the Thanthirimale Temple, Ritigala Monastery, Madhu Church, Doric Bungalow and the Mannar Fort. The wild landscape of fauna and flora interspersed with culture, religion and folklore is a bold attempt by the ...

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