Table of Contents
Introduction
The island nation of Sri Lanka boasts of a rich cultural heritage spanning over 2500 years. With a strategic location in the Indian Ocean, the country has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries. This unique blend has resulted in a diverse heritage that needs to be treasured and preserved for future generations. From ancient cities to religious sites, let’s uncover some of the most significant cultural treasures of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Sri Lanka has 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites that give a glimpse into its glorious past.
Sigiriya
This ancient palace and fortress complex dates back to the 5th century AD. Built atop a towering rock, the site has beautiful frescoes and gardens that are marvels of urban planning.
Polonnaruwa
This medieval capital city from the 10th century has stunning Buddhist temples and monuments. The Gal Vihara rock temple with massive Buddha statues is the most iconic.
Ancient City of Anuradhapura
Founded in the 4th century BC, this sacred city has magnificent dagobas or stupas and monasteries showcasing early Sinhalese civilization.
Sacred City of Kandy
Home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, this city is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The beautiful artificial lake and Royal Palace complex are added attractions.
Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
This port city has a historic fort with colonial Dutch-style architecture. The fort walls and bastions showcase European aesthetics.
Architectural Wonders
Sri Lanka has a wealth of architectural wonders that reflect its past glory.
Ancient temples
Remarkable temples like Mihintale and Ridi Vihara constructed in the Anuradhapura period have influenced temple architecture over the centuries. Intricately carved pillars, statue-filled sanctuaries, meditation halls with stonebeds and ponds can be seen.
Royal palaces
The partially preserved royal palace of King Parakramabahu in Polonnaruwa gives a glimpse of the royal lifestyle. Sigiriya has the remains of King Kasyapa’s palace atop the rock.
Stupas and Dagobas
Massive stupas like Ruwanwelisaya and Abhayagiri Dagoba dominate the skyline of ancient cities. The structures contain sacred relics.
Arts and Crafts
Sri Lankan arts and crafts showcase the country’s creativity and skill.
Paintings
Sri Lanka has a long tradition of vibrant temple paintings and murals depicting the life of Buddha, gods and royalty. Sigiriya frescoes are a fine example.
Wood carving
Intricate and elaborate woodwork can be seen on temple doors, ceilings and decorative objects. Kandyan masks and elephant sculptures are popular.
Mask making
Colorful masks used in folk rituals and dances are made from wood, papier mache or buffalo hide. The masks portray various characters.
Batik fabrics
Batik saris and clothing feature colorful designs of flowers, elephants and folk tales. It is a cherished handicraft.
Jewelry
Jewelry using silver, gems and beaten metalwork has an old-world charm. Kandyan jewelry with crescents, chains and stones is very popular.
Dance and Music
The performing arts hold a special place in Sri Lankan culture.
Traditional dance forms
Graceful classical dances like Kandyan dancing with elaborate costumes depict stories through movement. Folk dances like Bharatanatyam are also widely practiced.
Instruments
Traditional instruments like raban drum, thammattama cymbals and horanawa double flute are used in music performances.
Cuisine
Sri Lankan cuisine is a delectable part of its cultural heritage.
Rice and curry dishes
Rice with an assortment of spicy curries and condiments is the staple meal. Fish, chicken, pork and vegetable curries are most common.
Sweets
Kithul treacle is used to make sweets like kiribath pudding. Coconut milk and jaggery feature heavily in Sri Lankan desserts.
Beverages
King coconut water is refreshing and hydrating. Ceylon tea is world famous for its rich flavor. Herbal concoctions like beli and raspbery cordial are also popular.
Religious Heritage
Four major religions have shaped the cultural fabric of Sri Lanka over centuries.
Buddhism
Introduced in the 3rd century BC, Theravada Buddhism is practiced by 70% of the population. Ancient Buddhist shrines are central to cultural life.
Hinduism
Popular in the north and east, Hindu temples like Koneswaram temple in Trincomalee attract pilgrims.
Islam
Sri Lankan Moors and Malays practice Islam, while mosques and darghas represent Islamic architecture.
Christianity
Introduced by Portuguese colonizers, Christianity is found across the island with churches in cities and towns.
Ancient Cities and Settlements
Several ancient cities provide glimpses into early Sri Lankan civilization.
Anuradhapura
This ancient capital has sacred Buddhist sites dating back to the 3rd century BC.
Polonnaruwa
This medieval city from the 10th and 11th centuries contains archaeological wonders.
Sigiriya
Dating back to the 5th century AD, this royal citadel was an architectural marvel.
Dambulla
This cave monastery complex has ancient Buddha statues and exquisite murals.
Kandy
The last royal capital has the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Natural Heritage
Sri Lanka’s diverse natural landscapes add to its cultural essence.
Beaches
Palm-fringed beaches surround the island. Marine life and coral reefs attract tourists.
Tea estates
Verdant hill country tea estates producing world-famous Ceylon tea offer scenic views.
National parks and wildlife
Abundant flora and fauna including elephants, leopards and endemic birds can be seen in parks like Yala.
Challenges in Preservation
While rich in heritage, Sri Lanka faces challenges in preserving it.
- Lack of awareness about heritage sites leads to neglect.
- Rapid urbanization and migration is eroding traditional craftsmanship.
- Natural disasters like floods and earthquakes damage historic monuments.
- Financial constraints affect restoration and conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s unique blend of culture has developed over millennia. Its World Heritage sites, monuments, arts, cuisine and natural beauty should be meticulously safeguarded. With proper awareness, the glorious heritage of this island nation can continue nourishing the lives of future generations.
FAQs
Q: How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are there in Sri Lanka?
A: Sri Lanka has 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites including Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Kandy and Galle.
Q: What are some traditional crafts of Sri Lanka?
A: Popular Sri Lankan crafts include batik fabrics, masks, wood carvings, lacquerware, silver jewelry, stone carvings and palm leaf manuscripts.
Q: What are the key archaeological sites in Sri Lanka?
A: Significant archaeological ruins can be seen in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Mihintale, Yapahuwa and Jaffna.
Q: What are some distinct features of Sri Lankan cuisine?
A: Rice and curry, coconut milk, jaggery, kithul treacle, spices like cinnamon, seafood like crabs and prawns are common in Sri Lankan cuisine.
Q: What challenges does Sri Lanka face in preserving its heritage?
A: Challenges include lack of awareness, urbanization, migration of artisans, natural disasters like floods, and financial constraints in restoration efforts.