The city of Anuradhapura is situated two hundred five kilometers north of Colombo in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka on the banks of the Malwatu Oya. Founded in the 4th century BC it was the capital of the AnuradhapuraKingdom till the beginning of the 11th century AC. During this period it reminded one of the most stable and durable centers of political power and urban life in South Asia. It was also a wealthy city which created a unique culture and a great civilization. Today this ancient city of Sri Lanka, which is sacred to the Buddhist world, which its surrounding monasteries covers an area of over forty square kilometers and is one of the world's major archaeological sites.
EIGHT MAIN PLACES (ATHAMASTHANA)
There are 8 main places of worship known as Athamasthana. They are:
