Cultural Heritage

The people of Sri Lanka have inherited a great culture and a civilization. Archeological evidence exists to prove that Sri Lanka has been populated for over 3000 years. There is also confirmed archeological evidence to say that in about 800 B.C. the Sinhalese had settled down in the citadel area in Anuradhapura with a highly developed culture.
There are many places of historical and cultural importance. Lot of ruins can be seen at these places. Some of these places are Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Yapahuwa and Panduwasnuwara. We can imagine the skills and talents of Sri Lankan ancestors through these buildings, structures, and images.
Buddhism has not only moulded the lives and thoughts of the people, but also has served as the chief source of inspiration to the cultural and social achievements of the nation. During the long and eventful history the island was subject to numerous foreign invasions. But citizens were able to protect almost all the objects that were of cultural value.
In cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa we can see huge stone pillars, Buddha statues, Moonstones, Guard stones and Dagabas. These cities have become very popular places of tourists.