Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of the oldest cities in Sri Lanka and served as the country’s capital for over a thousand years, from the 4th century BCE until the 11th century CE. It is renowned for its well-preserved ancient ruins, including colossal stupas, monasteries, and a sacred fig tree believed to be a sapling from the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura is significant not only for its historical and architectural contributions but also for its role in the spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and across Asia.