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Sri Lanka

Yapahuwa

Granite rock citadel and fortress complex.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Yapahuwa, located in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka, was a fortified rock citadel and an ephemeral capital during the late 13th century. Constructed by King Bhuvenakabahu I in 1273 CE, it served as a strategic military stronghold and royal residence against South Indian invasions. The site is characterized by a massive granite rock rising 90 meters above the plains, featuring remnants of a palace, fortifications with moats and ramparts, and significant religious structures including a stupa and a temple for the Sacred Tooth Relic. The presence of Brahmi inscriptions and rock shelters indicate its earlier use as a Buddhist monastery. The citadel was abandoned following the Pandyan invasion and the capture of the Sacred Tooth Relic in 1284 CE. Yapahuwa's historical and architectural significance lies in its role as a brief political center and its unique fortress design echoing the iconic Sigiriya.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Yapahuwa

FileBatticaloa_Portuguese_dutch_fort.jpg
FileSL_Galle_Fort_asv2020-01_img20.jpg
FileYapahuwa_Lion.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

FortressesMoatsRamparts

Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesStupa

Domestic and Habitation Structures

PalacesCaves

Environmental and Natural Features

Rock SheltersBrahmi script inscription

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Sri Lanka
Source
Wikipedia