The Lost Treasures of Sri Lankan Kings: A Journey Through History – By Bhanuka – eLanka Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is not only renowned for its natural beauty but also for its rich and storied history. Among the most fascinating aspects of its history are the legendary treasures of its ancient kings, which continue to captivate the imagination of historians, archaeologists, and treasure hunters alike. The Golden Era of Sri Lankan Monarchs Sri Lanka’s history boasts a lineage of kings who ruled with grandeur, wealth, and vision. From the Anuradhapura Kingdom (377 BCE – 1017 CE) to the Kandyan Kingdom (1469–1815 CE), the island’s rulers amassed vast treasures that symbolized their power and prosperity. These treasures were not just indicators of material wealth but also carried deep cultural and religious significance. Sacred Offerings and Royal Wealth Many of the kings’ treasures were ...

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Galle: A Heritage city under threat– Interview with dr. Uditha Jinadasa-by Doreen van den Boogaart & Luc Bulten   Aerial view of Galle, ©Uditha Jinadasa Source:Stichtingnederlandsrilanka In Spring 2020 Dr. Uditha Jinadasa defended her dissertation ‘Changes in the Cultural Landscape and their Impacts on Heritage Management: A Study of Dutch Fort at Galle, Sri Lanka’ and earned her PhD from the Faculty of Archaeology, Leiden University. The fortified town of Galle is a living heritage city, but this status is threated by gentrification. Dr. Jinadasa researched what has happened to the architecture, demography, economy, and city culture since the Fort has become UNESCO World Heritage in 1988. Luc Bulten and Doreen van den Boogaart, young ambassadors of the Netherlands Sri Lanka Foundation, interviewed her about her thesis and her view on heritage management in Sri Lanka. Q: In your PhD thesis you note that on the one hand the current ...

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