Sri Lanka Kandy History: An Overview of the Ancient Kingdom
Sri Lanka Kandy is an ancient city located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, which was a powerful kingdom from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Kandy was the center of the Sinhalese culture and is known for its rich history, culture, and architecture.
Kandy was first established by King Vimaladharmasuriya I in 1592. It was a strategic location, located between the central highlands and the lowlands, and was also the center of trade and commerce. The city was a major religious center, as it was home to the Temple of the Tooth, a Buddhist temple that houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. It is believed that this relic was brought to Kandy by a Hindu prince from India in the 4th century CE.
Kandy was the capital of the kingdom for over two centuries. During this time, the city flourished with the construction of palaces, temples, and other monuments. The city was also a major center of learning, with many scholars and artists living in the city.
The kingdom of Kandy was ruled by a series of kings, who were members of the Nayaka dynasty. The kings were known for their patronage of the arts and literature, and were also responsible for the construction of many of the city’s monuments.
In the 19th century, the kingdom of Kandy was annexed by the British Empire. The city was then transformed into a colonial city, and many of the old monuments were destroyed or changed. The city was also the site of a major battle between the British and the Sinhalese in 1803.
Today, Kandy is a major tourist destination in Sri Lanka. The city is home to many historical sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Palace, and the National Museum. The city also has many beautiful gardens and parks.
Kandy is a city with a long and rich history. It is a place of great cultural and religious significance, and is home to many monuments and sites that are worth visiting. The city is also a great destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka.