Sirisangabo: A Legacy of Devotion and Sacrifice – By Bhanuka – eLanka Sirisangabo, also known as Siri Megha Vanna, was born into a noble family in the Anuradhapura Kingdom around the early 3rd century CE. The Anuradhapura Kingdom, founded in the 4th century BCE, was one of the most significant and long-lasting civilizations in ancient Sri Lanka. It was a period marked by profound cultural and religious development, with Theravada Buddhism playing a central role in shaping the kingdom’s identity. Sirisangabo was known for his piety and deep spiritual inclinations from a young age. His upbringing in a Buddhist environment fostered his devotion to the teachings of the Buddha, and he often sought the company of monks and ascetics. This spiritual foundation would later influence his decisions and actions as a ruler. Ascension to the Throne Sirisangabo ascended to the throne in 252 CE, following the reign of his predecessor, ...

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Fort Frederick in Trincomalee – emblazoned with colonial insignia By Arundathie Abeysinghe   Situated about four kilometers from Trincomalee town center, Fort Frederic also known as Trincomalee Fort or Fort Triquillimale is a fort built by the Portuguese. The Fort was built in 1624 CE on Swami Rock Konamamali from the debris of world renowned ancient Hindu Temple, Koneswaram Temple (Temple of Thousand Pillars). The Temple was destroyed by *Constantino de Sá de Noronha under Phillip II. Fort Triquillimale was dismantled and rebuilt by the Dutch in 1665 and renamed it as Fort Frederick. Later, the Temple was rebuilt. Originally, Fort Triquillimale has been a triangular shape. The triangular fort had been outfitted with artillery bastions with the objective defending against British invaders. In 1795, during the British Colonial Era, the British took over Fort Frederick and added artillery to the Fort. The gateway of the Fort which pierces the ...

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