Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs

Prehistoric Significance

One of the more overlooked ruins of the town of Dambulla is the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs. These tombs are believed to be the place in which many of the prehistoric inhabitants would bury their dead. According to archaeological research, the skeletal remains and the artefacts that have been found are believed to originate between 700 BC – 400 BC, making it one of the few places where it is possible to understand the society and lifestyle the ancient Sri Lankans used to follow. There is also evidence to suggest that these bodies were buried with specific rituals, due to the many artefacts found in the premises. 

Relics and Present-day Excavation

Artefacts that have been found in the premises range from clay pots, iron, copper, gold objects, beads, and necklaces. Intriguingly, some of the gemstones that have been found on the beads of the necklaces are not found naturally in the island, making it probable to speculate that the ancient people of Sri Lanka engaged in international trade with neighbouring countries. The current excavation site measures around 15 acres, making it one of the more remarkable discoveries in the country. Moreover, the site was only found in the 1980s, making it one of the more recent discoveries in the country that provide us some insight into the prehistoric civilisations that thrived.