The Kingdom of Anuradhapura (377 BCE – 1017 CE)

The Greatest Empire in Sri Lanka’s History – The Kingdom of Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka is home to a rich and diverse history, filled with powerful kingdoms that shaped its cultural and political landscape. Among them, the Kingdom of Anuradhapura (377 BCE – 1017 CE) stands out as the greatest empire in Sri Lankan history. Lasting for nearly 1,400 years, it was a period of immense political stability, advanced infrastructure, military conquests, religious evolution, and strong international relations. The kingdom’s achievements in architecture, governance, religion, trade, and warfare positioned it as one of the most influential civilizations in South Asia.

Anuradhapura was not just a political capital but also a spiritual, economic, and military powerhouse. The city itself became a center of Buddhist learning, a hub of international trade, and a marvel of engineering due to its sophisticated irrigation systems and stupas. Let’s explore in detail what made Anuradhapura the most significant empire in Sri Lanka’s past.

1. The Rise of Anuradhapura

The Anuradhapura Kingdom was founded in 377 BCE by King Pandukabhaya, who is regarded as the first true ruler to unify Sri Lanka under a centralized administration. Before his reign, the island was fragmented under various chieftains. His establishment of Anuradhapura as the capital was a crucial moment in history, as it became the foundation for one of the longest-ruling dynasties in the ancient world.

Pandukabhaya is also credited with the construction of large-scale reservoirs (wewas), fortifications, and roads, which ensured the capital’s sustainability and connectivity. The city rapidly developed into a cosmopolitan urban center, drawing influences from India, Persia, and even distant Rome.

Anuradhapura remained the capital of Sri Lanka for over a millennium, during which it became the epicenter of political power, religious activities, and international trade. Its strategic location on the island provided access to fertile lands, enabling agricultural expansion and establishing a thriving economy.

2. Political Stability and Strong Monarchs

The kingdom’s strength came largely from its long lineage of powerful rulers. These monarchs played a crucial role in expanding the kingdom’s borders, fortifying defenses, and patronizing Buddhism. Many kings left lasting legacies through monumental architecture and military achievements.

Notable Kings and Their Achievements:

• King Dutugemunu (161–137 BCE) – Defeated King Elara, a South Indian Chola ruler, and unified the island under Sinhala rule. His reign saw the construction of the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture.
• King Valagamba (89–77 BCE) – Overcame Tamil invaders and restored Anuradhapura’s sovereignty. He also commissioned the Dambulla Cave Temple, a site adorned with intricate murals and Buddha statues.
• King Vasabha (67–111 CE) – Built over 100 reservoirs to sustain agriculture, showcasing the kingdom’s engineering prowess.
• King Mahasena (274–301 CE) – Known as one of the greatest builders, Mahasena expanded irrigation networks and constructed the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, one of the tallest Buddhist structures in the world.
• King Dhatusena (455–473 CE) – Created the Kala Wewa reservoir and is associated with the magnificent Avukana Buddha statue, a monumental rock-cut sculpture.
• King Sena II (853–887 CE) – Successfully launched a military campaign in South India, defeating Pandya and Chola forces.

3. Relations with Ancient and Medieval Indian Kingdoms

Throughout its history, Anuradhapura had extensive relations with Indian dynasties, both in terms of warfare and diplomacy.

• Mauryan Empire (322–185 BCE) – The greatest impact came from Emperor Ashoka, who sent Arahat Mahinda to introduce Buddhism to Sri Lanka during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (247–207 BCE).
• Chola Dynasty (300 BCE – 1279 CE) – The Cholas were both trade partners and enemies. Their repeated invasions significantly impacted Sri Lankan history, culminating in the conquest of Anuradhapura in 1017 CE.
• Pallava Dynasty (275–897 CE) – Trade and cultural exchanges were common with the Pallavas, who influenced art and architecture.
• Pandya Dynasty (6th century BCE – 1345 CE) – The Pandyas had both friendly and hostile interactions, sometimes aiding Sri Lankan kings and at other times invading the island.

4. Religious and Cultural Influence

Anuradhapura was the epicenter of Theravāda Buddhism, with its influence spreading across Southeast Asia. The kingdom housed several Buddhist monasteries, educational institutions, and pilgrimage sites. The Mahavihara Monastery became a renowned center for Buddhist learning, attracting scholars from India and beyond.

Though Buddhism was the dominant faith, the kingdom was influenced by Hinduism and Jainism due to its close ties with South India. Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Murugan were also constructed during various periods.

5. Architectural and Engineering Marvels

Anuradhapura is known for its grand stupas, temples, palaces, and reservoirs, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Major Architectural Achievements:

• Sri Maha Bodhi – The oldest documented tree in the world, believed to be a direct descendant of the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
• Ruwanwelisaya Stupa – A towering Buddhist stupa built by King Dutugemunu, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s devotion to Theravāda Buddhism.
• Jetavanaramaya Stupa – Built by King Mahasena, this stupa stood at 122 meters, making it one of the tallest structures of the ancient world.

• Abhayagiri Monastery – A major Mahayana Buddhist center, housing thousands of monks.
• Isurumuniya Temple – Known for its rock carvings, including the famous Isurumuniya Lovers sculpture.
• Irrigation Systems – Large reservoirs such as Kala Wewa, Minneriya Wewa, and Tissa Wewa ensured agricultural sustainability.
• Thuparamaya – The first Buddhist stupa in Sri Lanka, built by King Devanampiya Tissa.
• Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace) – A massive monastery with over 1,000 rooms, originally covered in bronze tiles.
• Samadhi Buddha Statue – A famous meditation statue in Anuradhapura.
• Ranmasu Uyana – An ancient pleasure garden with rock inscriptions believed to have astronomical significance.
• Tissa Wewa, Minneriya Wewa, Kala Wewa – Major reservoirs crucial for sustaining agriculture.
• Anuradhapura Royal Palace – The residence of kings, showcasing advanced architecture of the time.

Other important cities under Anuradhapura’s rule included Mihintale, where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka, and Tissamaharama, which housed royal palaces and monastic institutions.

6. Trade and Economic Prosperity

The kingdom’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean made it a major center for trade. Goods from Sri Lanka, such as spices, gems, pearls, and elephants, were highly sought after in international markets.

Major Trade Partners:

• India – The primary trade partner, exchanging gold, textiles, and spices.
• China – Sri Lanka exported cinnamon and gemstones while importing silk and ceramics.
• Persian Gulf & Roman Empire – Roman coins and artifacts found in Anuradhapura indicate extensive trade links with the Mediterranean world.

Legacy of Anuradhapura

Despite its fall to the Cholas in 1017 CE, Anuradhapura’s legacy lives on. Its monuments, irrigation systems, and cultural traditions continue to shape modern Sri Lanka. The city remains a major pilgrimage site, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The advanced irrigation networks built during its reign are still in use today, showcasing the kingdom’s unparalleled engineering expertise. The artistic and religious contributions of Anuradhapura influenced not only Sri Lankan culture but also Buddhist traditions across Asia, especially in Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia. The preservation and restoration of these historical sites reflect the lasting impact of Anuradhapura’s grandeur, solidifying its place as an eternal symbol of Sri Lanka’s golden age.

Bibliography

• Paranavitana, S. (1959). A Concise History of Ceylon. University of Ceylon Press.
• Deraniyagala, S. (1992). The Prehistory of Sri Lanka. Department of Archaeology, Sri Lanka.
• Holt, J. (1996). The Buddhist Visnu: Religious Transformation, Politics, and Culture. Columbia University Press.
• Codrington, H. W. (1926). A Short History of Ceylon. Macmillan & Co.