Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka with a rich history dating back to the 5th century BC. It was the capital of the Sinhala Kingdom of Rajarata and a center of Theravada Buddhism for centuries. The city boasts well-preserved ruins, ancient temples, and the famous Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be the oldest planted tree in the world. Despite being mostly deserted after a Chola invasion in 993 CE, Anuradhapura remains a significant pilgrimage site and a vital part of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage.