The cultural world heritage sites of Sri Lanka in photos.
1. Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
After the South Indian kings, invaded Anuradhapura, the Sinhalese kings moved their capital to Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa’s architectural designs, paintings and sculptures has it own identity which was not influenced by Buddhism, but also by Hinduism. UNESCO added Polonnaruwa to its World Heritage Site list in 1982.
2. Ancient City of Sigiriya
Sigriya is a city which was created by King Kashyapa in 5th century. The highlight of Sigriya is the 200 meter high Lion Rock which is surrounded by huge gardens, pathways, ponds and fountains. On mid way to the peak of the rock lies mirror wall on which are inscribed more than one thousand poems. UNESCO declared this a World heritage site in 1982.
3. Golden and Cave Temple of Dambulla
4. Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
5. Sacred City of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is believed to be the first city and capital of Sri Lanka since Buddhism became the primary faith of its people. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1982 by UNESCO.