Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s longest lasting capital was one of the greatest monastic cities of the ancient world flourishing with Buddhist culture and crowning architectural achievements. Being the heart of Sri Lankan civilization for over a millennium, Anuradhapura was the royal capital of 113 successive kings who administered the producing of magnificent palaces, elaborate sculptures, opulent gardens and enormous stupas built to protect the most sacred relics of Buddhism. The three main stupas Ruwanweliseya, Jetavanaramaya and Abhayagiri stupas are amongst the biggest architectural creations of the ancient world, surpassed in size only by the pyramids of Giza. According to tradition, this sacred city was founded in 377 BC by King Pandukhabaya. It was abandoned in 1073 when the capital was transferred to Polonnaruwa. The abandonment and the nature’s hand took a toll on the city, as the jungle enveloped most of the magnificent palaces, stupas and monasteries. Once found again, many a restoration work has been done to preserve the ancient architecture and heritage. Now, this great city stands as a testament to the height of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist culture and heritage through its architectural marvels and impressive irrigation system.