N-E archaeological places to be declared World Heritage Sites
Priyanka Kurugala
Under scrutiny
* Ancient harbours
* Kurundugoda temple
* Girihandu seya
* Thirukethishwaram Kovil
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Girihandu Seya, considered
the world’s first stupa |
Important ancient archaeological sites in the Northern and Eastern
Provinces will be declared World Heritage Sites in the near future on
the initiative of National Heritage Minister Dr Jagath Balasuriya and
with the support of the German government. Ancient harbours which had
been important ports along the trade route between China and Rome,
Kurundugoda temple in Jaffna which belongs to the pre historic period
and ancient settlements Jaffna Fort, Girihandu Seya which is considered
the first Stupa built in the world and Thirukethishwaram kovil will be
proclaimed world heritage sites.
The National Heritage Ministry has taken steps to present the project
proposal to the UNESCO National Committee regarding this.
A discussion between Dr Balasuriya and German Deputy Ambassador in
Sri Lanka Stefan Weak Bark was held at the Ministry to prepare the
proposal recently. The ministry will also take action to discover all
archaeological sites in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.
Minister Balasuriya said that he has paid full attention to proclaim
other important archaeological sites in these two provinces as world
heritage sites with immediate effect.
Dr Balasuriya thanked the German government, the German Embassy and
the Sri Lankan UNESCO National Commission for their assistance in this
regard.
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