Sri Lanka discovers golden Buddha statues at ancient Anuradhapura temple

Excavation work at the rampart of the Abhayagiri temple complex in Anuradhapura has yielded a collection of golden Buddha statues, providing fresh insights into the religious and artistic practices of Sri Lanka's classical period. The temple complex, one of the island's most important Buddhist sites, has long been a focus of archaeological investigation.

The Abhayagiri monastery was historically one of the largest Buddhist institutions in ancient Anuradhapura, serving as a major centre of learning and religious practice. The discovery of the golden statues adds to the growing body of evidence about the sophistication and wealth of Buddhist communities during this era.

Archaeological work at Anuradhapura continues to yield artifacts that illuminate the cultural and spiritual life of the ancient kingdom. The city, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains one of South Asia's most significant centres of Buddhist archaeology and attracts scholars and researchers from around the region.

The finds are expected to be studied by local and international experts to better understand their historical context and artistic significance. Such discoveries underscore Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and its importance in the broader history of religion in South and Southeast Asia.