Architecture of Ancient Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is filled with old constructions erected at different times. But the historic and ancient architecture are linked to Buddhism. A great variety of religious edifices were constructed before the colonial period and some construction still remains.

We have listed 5 old architectural structures still visible in Sri Lanka today.

Mulkirigala:beautiful and peaceful

Located in the heart of a green forest of coconut trees,known as the Little Sigiriya, The Rock of Mulkirigala is composed of seven cave temples situated in different altitudes. It was most likely constructed between461 and479 AD by King Datusena and later developed by King Kirti Sri Rajasinghein, in the eighteenthcentury. Nowadays, we can see seven Viharas,seven Buddha statues, and several old paintings.

Polonnaruwa: The mediaeval capital of Sri Lanka

Built in the 12th century AD, Polonnaruwa was for a period the most important city of the island and was a flourishing commercial and political hub . Sri Lanka’s most prosperous time was during the reign of Polo Parakramabahu, who made the city the island’s capital. Architecture inspired by India was developed at this time and we can still see it through its preserved sites.

Ridi Viharaya: the oldest known temple

Located in Ridigama (which means silver) Village in the Kurunegala district, Ridi Viharaya is a Buddhist temple built in second-century and also called Silver Temple. According to the chronicles Mahavamsa and Thupavamsa, it was erected in order to show gratitude to the Dutthagamani of Anuradhapura, who ruled Sri Lanka from 161 BC to 137 BC. Filled with around twenty-five caves all around the temple, its the oldest known temple of the island.

Anuradhapura: the ancient city of Buddhist monasteries

Located in the North Central province of Sri Lanka is also an ancient capital of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, back in the fourth Century BC. It remained the main city for about 1500 years and was at one point one on the main trade and political centers in South Asia. A great amount of architecture still remains today so we can have an idea of what the city looked like during its prime.

Dambulla: Sri Lanka’s largest cave temple

Dambulla is a city constructed during the reign of King Vattagamini, in order to hide him from a South Indian invasion. After the king was done hiding in the caves, he decided to transform them into Buddhist temples.  Nowadays, it is the largest and the best-preserved cave temple complex of the island.  In total, we can observe 3 statues of Sri Lankan kings, 4 god and goddess and 153 Buddha statues.