Spatial distribution and functional relationship of local bedrock and stone constructions in the cultural landscape of ancient Anuradhapura (377 BCE–1017 CE), Sri Lanka

Abstract

The city of Anuradhapura, founded on the banks of the River Malwathu Oya, was the ancient capital of Sri Lanka between the 4th century BCE and the 11th century CE. The widespread architectural remains of the ancient city make it the most important archaeological site in the cultural landscape of the country. Most of the foundations, floor areas, pillars, and entrance units of the ancient constructions consist of stone materials, evidencing that stones were the principal building material in the ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura. Numerous ancient rock quarries are located inside and outside the ancient city complex; most of them can be found along a N-S striking line of rock outcrops that runs through the historic city.This study focuses on the importance of the availability of stone resources for the founding and development of early Anuradhapura settlement. For this purpose the building rocks in the ancient constructions are analyzed and the spatial distribution of their source areas examined using the petrological, chemical and mineralogical characterization of both building and source rock specimens.The investigations document the predominant application of local gneissic rocks for construction elements such as pillars, stairs, balustrades and foundations. Contrastingly marble, which is not represented in the local lithology, was imported and utilized for ornamentation in sacred and residential buildings.