Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom

Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom, established in the 13th century in Sri Lanka, served as a temporary capital during a tumultuous period marked by invasions from South India. King Bhuvanekabahu I relocated the capital to Yapahuwa in 1272, bringing the Sacred Tooth Relic for protection. The kingdom was characterized by its impressive rock fortress, featuring fortified walls and intricate stone carvings, including a notable lion sculpture at the entrance. Despite its brief prominence, Yapahuwa played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s history before falling to invaders and becoming a site for Buddhist monks and hermits.