Novel definition for heritage
The book is described as a valiant attempt to capture archaeological
monuments, historical places and collection of artefacts. The work
highlights not only sites of archaeological value but also geographical
culture and climate diversities of Sri Lanka which could greatly appeal
to tourists, while portraying the civilization and culture of this
country over the years.
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Sri Lanka Heritages Foundation
Chairman Neil Kiriella’s book ‘Sri Lanka Heritages’ was
launched recently. The first copy of the book was presented
to Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa. |
“The book is indeed salutary and it endeavors to bring in value to
our hallowed heritage. Sri Lanka’s records of rich heritage runs more
than 2500 years while oral history runs to millenniums. Remnants of this
glorious past are still evident in the form of artifacts, monuments and
heritage sites.
This book defines what heritage is. Heritage is not only
archaeological monuments, historical places and collection of artifacts.
Heritage includes traditions inherited from our ancestors. These
cultural expressions have evolved in response to their environment and
contributed in giving us a sense of identity to those societies. Added
to the monumental heritage we possess a very rich intangible heritage
and natural in the form of oral expressions, performing arts, social
practices, rituals, traditions continuing from generation to generation.
Natural heritage is also an important segment of a society’s heritage
and encompasses natural environment including the fauna and flora,”
Department of Archaeology Director General Dr. Senerath Dissanayaka said
at the launching ceremony in Colombo.
Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Galle and the
nature’s heritage Sinharaja and Peak Widerness are named as World
Heritage sites by UNESCO. This book details these various cultural
heritages and wide ranging nature reserves and it has immense potential
to create a new value added product to cater to the up market tourists,
he said.
Sri Lanka is a relatively a small island of magic and mystery of
pride, heritage, ancient history and tradition, a land where smiling
faces surrounds you no matter where you go.
- SJ
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