These were the two ancient capitals of Sri Lanka. The
dagobas (Buddhist domes) are as impressive as the Egyptian
pyramids and it remains a mystery how these gigantic have
been built at a time when there was no civilisation to
speak of in Europe.
Anuradhapura is also a pilgirm site for Buddhists as it has
the oldest living fig-tree (ficus religiosa) ! And Polonnaruwa
boasts it had what could have been the world's tallest multi-storied
building at that time as well as an irrigation system - of which
some parts are still in use today - that provided the whole
island with much needed water for rice fields. No wonder, UNESCO
shows great interest in preserving and maintaining these sites.
Sigiriya
The 8th wonder of the world: on top of this rock one infamous
king built himself a palace with a passage leading towards
it that shows paintings of his concubines, so delicately depicted
that they are a true art treasure which must be seen.
Dambulla
If the frescoes of Sigiriya are enchanting, then the ones at
Dambulla will stun you right out ! This series of rock-temples
are adorned with paintings that look as if the whole interior
is dressed in rich fabric. A true must on your tour !
