Sri Lanka Puttalam History: A Glimpse into the Past
Sri Lanka Puttalam is a district located in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka. It is situated along the coast of the Puttalam Lagoon and is bordered by the Mannar and Anuradhapura Districts. The district has a rich history that dates back centuries and has been shaped by the various civilizations that have inhabited the area. Puttalam was once a major port and trading center in the Indian Ocean and has been an important part of Sri Lanka's history since ancient times.
The earliest known inhabitants of Puttalam were the Veddas, an indigenous people who were believed to have been living in the area since prehistoric times. The Veddas were hunter-gatherers and were known to have a close relationship with nature. They were also known to practice a form of animism, worshipping various gods and goddesses.
In the 4th century BCE, the Sinhalese people began to settle in Puttalam. The Sinhalese were a people from the Indian subcontinent who had migrated to Sri Lanka during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa. The Sinhalese brought with them their culture and religion, Buddhism, which would later become the dominant religion of Sri Lanka.
During the Anuradhapura period, Puttalam was a major port and trading center in the Indian Ocean. It was an important link between the Indian subcontinent and the ancient kingdoms of South East Asia. The port was also used to trade in spices, ivory, and other goods.
In the 10th century, the Chola dynasty of South India invaded Sri Lanka and conquered Puttalam. The Chola rulers brought their own culture and religion, Hinduism, to the region. They also built many temples and monuments in the area, including the famous Koneswaram temple.
The Portuguese arrived in Puttalam in the 16th century and established a trading post in the area. The Dutch then followed in the 17th century and built the famous Fort Hammenhiel. The fort was used to protect the Dutch trading post from the Portuguese. The British then took control of the area in the 19th century and established the town of Puttalam.
Puttalam has seen many changes over the centuries. It has been a major port, a trading center, and a strategic military outpost. Today, Puttalam is a vibrant town with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to a variety of temples, monuments, and other historical sites. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka's past.