Anuradhapura Timelines Article

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Anuradhapura Timelines

About

Anuradhapura is an ancient city located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It was the capital city of Sri Lanka from the 4th century BCE until the 11th century CE. Anuradhapura is known for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Time Period

Anuradhapura’s history spans over 1,300 years, from around the 4th century BCE to the 11th century CE.

Historical Events

Event	Date
Establishment of Anuradhapura as the capital	4th century BCE
Introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda Thero	3rd century BCE
Construction of major irrigation tanks (such as Abhayavapi)	3rd century BCE – 1st century CE
Golden Age of Anuradhapura, with notable constructions (such as Ruwanwelisaya stupa)	1st century BCE – 1st century CE
Invasion by South Indian Chola Dynasty	10th century CE
Decline and abandonment of Anuradhapura as the capital	11th century CE

Emperors of Anuradhapura

Emperor	Time Period
Pandukabhaya	4th century BCE – 4th century CE
Devanampiya Tissa	3rd century BCE – 2nd century BCE
Dutthagamani	2nd century BCE – 1st century BCE
Mahasena	3rd century CE – 4th century CE
Nissankamalla	12th century CE

Mysteries

Anuradhapura holds several mysteries and legends, including those surrounding the construction techniques used for massive structures like stupas and the technological advancements of the ancient Sri Lankan civilization.

Wars

War	Time Period
Invasions by South Indian kingdoms	1st century CE – 11th century CE

Important Persons

• Mahinda Thero – Introducer of Buddhism to Sri Lanka
• King Dutugemunu – Renovator of the Ruwanwelisaya and unifier of Sri Lanka
• King Devanampiya Tissa – Promoter of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
• King Mahasena – Famous for the construction of massive irrigation tanks

Current State

Today, Anuradhapura is a major archaeological site and a sacred city for Buddhist pilgrimage. The ruins of ancient structures, such as stupas, monasteries, and palaces, attract tourists and researchers from around the world.