- 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) Islam B) Buddhism C) Christianity D) Hinduism
- 2. Which ancient kingdom was Anuradhapura the capital of?
A) Polonnaruwa Kingdom B) Kandyan Kingdom C) Anuradhapura Kingdom D) Jaffna Kingdom
- 3. Which tree is considered sacred in Anuradhapura?
A) Mango tree B) Bodhi tree C) Neem tree D) Jack tree
- 4. What UNESCO designation does Anuradhapura hold?
A) World Heritage Site B) Cultural Landscape C) Biosphere Reserve 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) Kandy Museum B) National Museum of Colombo C) Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum D) Galle Museum
- 7. What does the term 'Vihara' mean in relation to Anuradhapura?
A) Market place B) Buddhist monastery C) Royal palace D) Farming land
- 8. What is unique about the Jetavanaramaya?
A) It is made of granite B) It was one of the tallest stupas in the world C) It has a large garden D) It is an underground structure
- 9. Which ethnic group primarily occupies Anuradhapura today?
A) Sinhalese B) Burghers C) Tamils D) Muslims
- 10. What major event is commemorated during the Poson Poya festival in Anuradhapura?
A) Harvest festival B) The introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka C) Victory over invaders D) New year celebration
- 11. Who is the main deity worshiped at the ancient temples of Anuradhapura?
A) Buddha B) Ganesha C) Shiva D) Vishnu
- 12. What ancient connectivity was highlighted in Anuradhapura?
A) Fishing routes along the coast B) Trade routes with India C) Military routes to the north D) Cultural exchanges with China
- 13. What other ancient city served as the capital after Anuradhapura?
A) Colombo B) Polonnaruwa C) Kandy D) Sigiriya
- 14. What kind of structure is the Thuparamaya?
A) A temple for rituals B) A dagoba (stupa) C) A fortress D) An ancient palace
- 15. What type of script was used for inscriptions in Anuradhapura?
A) Tamil script B) Brahmi script C) Devanagari script D) Latin script
- 16. Which ancient king is credited with establishing Anuradhapura?
A) King Mahasena B) King Vasabha C) King Pandukabhaya D) King Devanampiya Tissa
- 17. What does the term 'Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi' refer to?
A) An ancient stupa B) A royal palace C) A statue of Buddha D) A sacred fig tree
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