ABSTRACT
The hydraulic landscape – the complex system of water collection, storage and distribution – enabled the development and fluorescence of Anuradhapura as a major Indian Ocean urban centre. Anuradhapura had three distinct zones: the Citadel, the surrounding monumental Sacred City, and a hinterland further beyond. Anuradhapura's urban core is served by three main, perennial tanks the major one Nuvaraveva; and two medium-sized tanks, Tissaveva and Basavak Kulam; in addition to several smaller seasonal tanks including Bulan Kulam. Due to the importance of the irrigation system, the tanks were extensively restored and renovated by the British in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Culavamsa has always portrayed the 11th century-Chola conquest of Sri Lanka as an act of extreme violence, one that resulted in the demolition of the island's capital, in the decimation of the sangha, and in the plundering of the islands treasures.
