- 1. Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkable archaeological significance and rich history that dates back to the 4th century BC. Nestled in the North Central Province, this city was the center of Sri Lankan civilization for over a millennium and is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of palaces, monasteries, and stupas. Notable features include the Sri Maha Bodhi, which is believed to be a sapling from the sacred fig tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, making it one of the oldest living trees in the world. The sprawling complex of the Ruwanwelisaya stupa stands as a testament to the ancient engineering prowess, encasing relics of the Buddha and attracting pilgrims from across the globe. The city's layout reflects the sophisticated urban planning of the time, complemented by an intricate system of irrigation that supported agriculture in the region. Anuradhapura remains a vital religious hub, fostering Theravada Buddhism and continuing to host vibrant festivals that celebrate its historical and spiritual heritage, drawing visitors who are eager to explore its storied past and serene atmosphere.
Which religion is predominantly associated with Anuradhapura?
A) Hinduism
B) Buddhism
C) Islam
D) Christianity
- 2. Which ancient kingdom was Anuradhapura the capital of?
A) Polonnaruwa Kingdom
B) Anuradhapura Kingdom
C) Jaffna Kingdom
D) Kandyan Kingdom
- 3. Which tree is considered sacred in Anuradhapura?
A) Mango tree
B) Neem tree
C) Jack tree
D) Bodhi tree
- 4. What UNESCO designation does Anuradhapura hold?
A) World Heritage Site
B) Biosphere Reserve
C) Cultural Landscape
D) Geopark
- 5. What is the significance of the Isurumuniya rock temple?
A) Trade routes
B) A royal palace
C) Buddhist carvings and sculptures
D) Agricultural fields
- 6. Which museum is located in Anuradhapura?
A) Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum
B) Galle Museum
C) Kandy Museum
D) National Museum of Colombo
- 7. What does the term 'Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi' refer to?
A) A statue of Buddha
B) A sacred fig tree
C) A royal palace
D) An ancient stupa
- 8. What is unique about the Jetavanaramaya?
A) It is made of granite
B) It is an underground structure
C) It has a large garden
D) It was one of the tallest stupas in the world
- 9. Which ethnic group primarily occupies Anuradhapura today?
A) Tamils
B) Sinhalese
C) Burghers
D) Muslims
- 10. What ancient connectivity was highlighted in Anuradhapura?
A) Cultural exchanges with China
B) Military routes to the north
C) Trade routes with India
D) Fishing routes along the coast
- 11. What does the term 'Vihara' mean in relation to Anuradhapura?
A) Royal palace
B) Buddhist monastery
C) Market place
D) Farming land
- 12. What major event is commemorated during the Poson Poya festival in Anuradhapura?
A) The introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka
B) Harvest festival
C) Victory over invaders
D) New year celebration
- 13. What kind of structure is the Thuparamaya?
A) A temple for rituals
B) An ancient palace
C) A fortress
D) A dagoba (stupa)
- 14. Which ancient king is credited with establishing Anuradhapura?
A) King Devanampiya Tissa
B) King Mahasena
C) King Pandukabhaya
D) King Vasabha
- 15. Who is the main deity worshiped at the ancient temples of Anuradhapura?
A) Vishnu
B) Buddha
C) Ganesha
D) Shiva
- 16. What other ancient city served as the capital after Anuradhapura?
A) Kandy
B) Colombo
C) Sigiriya
D) Polonnaruwa
- 17. What type of script was used for inscriptions in Anuradhapura?
A) Latin script
B) Brahmi script
C) Devanagari script
D) Tamil script
|