The Shift of Power - Anuradhapura Replaces Upatissa Nuwara as the Capital of Sri Lanka (337 BCE)
The Transition of Capitals in Ancient Sri Lanka
In 337 BCE, a pivotal moment occurred in the history of Sri Lanka when Anuradhapura officially replaced Upatissa Nuwara as the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom. This shift marked the beginning of Anuradhapura's long and illustrious reign as the political, religious, and cultural heart of the island for over a millennium.
Historical Context
- Upatissa Nuwara had served as the capital of Sri Lanka since the reign of King Pandukabhaya's successor, King Upatissa I (circa 4th century BCE).
- According to the Mahavamsa (the great chronicle of Sri Lankan history), Pandukabhaya (437-367 BCE) had already begun developing Anuradhapura as a major city, but it was under his successors that it fully eclipsed Upatissa Nuwara.
- By 337 BCE, King Pandukabhaya's dynasty had consolidated power, and Anuradhapura's strategic location—near fertile lands and key trade routes—made it a more suitable administrative and economic center.
Why Did the Capital Shift?
- Strategic Advantages: Anuradhapura was better positioned for agriculture (with access to reservoirs like the Basawakkulama) and trade, being closer to key ports and inland routes.
- Religious Significance: The city became a major center for Buddhism after the arrival of Mahinda Thera (son of Emperor Ashoka) in the 3rd century BCE, though this was after the initial shift.
- Urban Planning: Anuradhapura was systematically developed with royal palaces, monasteries, and irrigation systems, making it a more sustainable long-term capital.
Legacy of Anuradhapura
- Anuradhapura remained Sri Lanka's capital for nearly 1,400 years, enduring invasions, dynastic changes, and religious transformations.
- It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved ruins, including the Sri Maha Bodhi (a sacred fig tree brought from India) and the Ruwanwelisaya stupa.
Limitations in Historical Records
While the Mahavamsa provides key details, some aspects of this transition remain debated among historians due to limited archaeological evidence from this early period.
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