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Home  ⁄  Tag Archives: Sri Lanka cultural heritage

Sigiriya: The Sky Fortress of Sri Lanka’s Ancient Kings Source : Meshaun Journeys LinkedIn More than 1,500 years ago, a king chose this towering rock as the seat of his empire. Not for defense—but for legacy. What he built was a city in the clouds, a statement of power and precision that still captivates the world today. At the base, landscaped gardens flow into symmetrical moats and fountains—still functioning in monsoon rains, whispering of ancient engineering genius. Higher up, painted Apsaras emerge from the stone—graceful women in silk-like garments, their presence untouched by time, their expressions as vivid as when first brushed onto rock. Then, the lion’s paws: colossal, weathered, and silent. They once guarded a staircase that led straight into the sky. At the summit—ruins of a palace, bathing pools carved in stone, and sweeping views that stretch beyond memory. From here, King Kashyapa ruled—surrounded by mist, forest, and eternity. ...

May 2, 2025 Posted by In Articles Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,
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Health & Views February 1st issue 2025 – By Dr. Harold Gunatillake Dear Readers, As we come together to celebrate Sri Lanka’s Independence Day on February 4th, 2024, it is a time for reflection, unity, and renewal. This significant day marks our journey towards freedom and self-determination, a journey filled with resilience, hope, and the unwavering spirit of our people. A Legacy of Resilience Sri Lanka’s history is a testament to the strength and resilience of its people. From ancient times, through colonial struggles and the eventual triumph of independence, we have shown that our spirit cannot be broken. As we honour the heroes who fought for our freedom, we are reminded of the importance of perseverance and the power of collective effort. Health and Well-being: A National Priority On this Independence Day, let us also reflect on our nation’s health and well-being. Good health is the foundation of a ...

Feb 3, 2025 Posted by In Articles, Dr harold Gunatillake Tagged , , , , ,
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The Areca Catechu: A Cultural and Economic Symbol of Sri Lanka – By Bhanuka – eLanka The Areca catechu, known as the Betel Nut Palm, holds a significant place in Sri Lanka’s cultural and traditional landscape. Commonly referred to as “Puwak” in Sinhala, this palm is an iconic feature of the tropical environment, recognized for its tall, slender trunk and crown of feathery leaves. The Areca catechu is cultivated widely across the lowlands and wet zones of Sri Lanka, thriving in the warm and humid climate that is characteristic of the island. Its primary product, the betel nut, has been used for centuries in a variety of practices, making it an integral part of Sri Lankan life. The betel nut, encased within a fibrous husk, is harvested, processed, and consumed in many ways. One of its most traditional uses is as part of the betel quid, a mixture made by ...

Dec 21, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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Degaldoruwa Cave Temple – finest examples of Kandyan era paintings By Arundathie Abeysinghe Constructed in 1771 AD by King Rajadi Rajasinha (1782–1798) as a Cave Temple with *Kandyan era architecture and paintings and situated in Amunugama in Kandy, the Temple is situated at a place where two rocks have linked with each other from above as well as below, almost similar to one single rock. The rock mass has a height of approximately 40 feet (about 12 meters). The Shrine Room of the Temple has been constructed by breaking the rocks. Construction of the Temple had commenced during the reign of King Rajadi Rajasinha’s elder brother King Kirti Sri Rajasinha (1747-1782 AD). King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha was well-known as a great restorer of the Buddhist Order, as he revitalized numerous abandoned historical monasteries, resettling them with monks and adorning the places of worship with resplendent paintings. Majority of finest examples ...

Aug 9, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Arundathie Abeysinghe Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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Exploring the Mysteries of Kala Wewa: Sri Lanka’s Ancient Reservoir – By Bhanuka – eLanka Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Sri Lanka lies a testament to ancient engineering brilliance and the enduring legacy of hydraulic civilization: Kala Wewa. This monumental reservoir, dating back over two millennia, stands as a silent witness to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the island’s early inhabitants. Let’s embark on a journey through time to unravel the mysteries of Kala Wewa. Origins and Construction Kala Wewa, meaning “Black Reservoir” in Sinhalese, was built during the reign of King Dhatusena (4th century AD) in the ancient capital of Anuradhapura. Its construction was a marvel of ancient engineering, aimed at harnessing the seasonal rains to support agriculture in the region. The reservoir was part of a sophisticated irrigation network that included an extensive system of canals and smaller tanks, ensuring the efficient distribution of water to farmlands ...

May 7, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged , , , , , , , , ,
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Sweet Delights of Sinhala and Hindu Aluth Aurudu Traditions: Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Sri Lanka’s New Year Treats – By Malsha – eLanka In the vibrant cultural mosaic of Sri Lanka, the Sinhala and Hindu New Year, commonly known as Aluth Aurudu, is a time of immense celebration and joy. Central to these festivities are the delectable traditional sweets that are lovingly prepared and shared among families and communities. These sweets not only tantalize the taste buds but also carry deep cultural significance, reflecting centuries-old customs and traditions passed down through generations. Symbolism of Sweets in Aluth Aurudu: In Sinhala and Hindu New Year celebrations, sweets hold a special place, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and the sweetness of life itself. Each sweet is carefully crafted with a blend of indigenous ingredients, aromatic spices, and culinary techniques that have been perfected over time. From the preparation to the presentation, every aspect ...

Apr 13, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Malsha Madhuhansi Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,
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Exploring Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – By Bhanuka – eLanka Sri Lanka, an island nation rich in history and cultural diversity, boasts a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that stand as testaments to its ancient civilizations and architectural prowess. In this exploration, we embark on a captivating journey to discover the cultural marvels that have earned Sri Lanka its esteemed UNESCO recognition. Sigiriya – The Lion Rock Fortress: Nestled in the heart of the cultural triangle, Sigiriya rises majestically, adorned with ancient frescoes and surrounded by landscaped gardens. Explore the engineering brilliance of King Kasyapa’s fortress, its iconic lion’s paw entrance, and the breathtaking views from the summit. Ancient City of Polonnaruwa: Step back in time as we wander through the well-preserved ruins of Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Marvel at the intricately carved statues, explore the royal palace complex, and witness the sacred ...

Mar 12, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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Yapahuwa: Unveiling the Ancient Majesty of Sri Lanka’s Forgotten Capital – By Bhanuka – eLanka Sri Lanka, a country adorned with historical gems, boasts an illustrious past that echoes through its ancient sites. One such treasure is Yapahuwa, a majestic rock fortress situated in the North Western Province. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the rich history and unique features that make Yapahuwa a cultural and architectural marvel. 1. Historical Significance: Yapahuwa served as the capital of Sri Lanka for a brief but pivotal period in its history. Established in the 13th century by King Buwanekabahu I, it became the seat of political power and a symbol of strength during a time of political upheaval. 2. Architectural Marvel: The rock fortress of Yapahuwa stands proudly on a massive granite rock, showcasing the architectural prowess of the ancient Sri Lankan builders. The site features a stunning array ...

Jan 30, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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Minneriya Wewa: Unveiling the Ancient Reservoir of Sri Lanka – By Bhanuka – eLanka Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, Minneriya Wewa stands as a testament to the island nation’s rich history and the ingenuity of its ancient civilizations. This reservoir, also known as Minneriya Tank, holds not only water but also tales of engineering prowess, cultural significance, and the harmonious coexistence of nature and human ingenuity. Historical Significance: Minneriya Wewa has a storied history dating back to the third century BC when it was built by King Mahasena. Serving as an irrigation reservoir, this artificial lake played a pivotal role in sustaining agricultural activities in the region. The complex network of tanks and canals created by ancient Sri Lankan engineers showcased a remarkable understanding of hydraulics and water management. Engineering Marvel: The sheer scale and precision of the construction of Minneriya Wewa reflect the advanced engineering skills of ...

Jan 6, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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Palaces to Pagodas: A Time Capsule Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Enchanting Past – By Nadeeka – eLanka Embark on a captivating journey through the corridors of time as we delve into the rich history of Sri Lanka, a land where palaces echo tales of royalty and pagodas whisper centuries-old serenity. “Palaces to Pagodas” invites you to explore the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lanka’s past, where every stone has a story and every monument a melody. 1. The Grandeur of Ancient Palaces Sigiriya: The Lion’s Fortress Uncover the secrets of Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress that once served as a royal palace. Ascend the iconic rock, adorned with mesmerizing frescoes, and relive the opulence of a bygone era. The panoramic views from the summit offer a glimpse into the grandeur that once surrounded the royal court. Polonnaruwa: The Royal Citadel Step into the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, where the ruins of ...

Jan 2, 2024 Posted by In Articles, Nadeeka Kumari Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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