A Glimpse into Sri Lanka’s Prehistoric Past

Overview
The Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs, located near Ibbankatuwa Wewa in Galewela DS, Sri Lanka, stand as a testament to the island’s ancient burial customs and societal structure. Situated approximately 5 kilometers southwest of Dambulla on the Kurunegala-Dambulla road, this archaeological site dates back to the prehistoric and protohistoric periods of Sri Lanka (700–400 B.C.). It was designated an archaeological protected site and opened for public viewing in 2017, making it a remarkable attraction for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Discovery and Excavation

The tomb site was first identified in 1970 by the Archaeological Department. Radiocarbon dating of the artifacts and remains confirmed the site’s age to be between 700–450 B.C., linking it to Sri Lanka’s protohistoric period. Subsequent excavations in the 1980s and 1990s uncovered significant findings, revealing the site’s role in ancient burial rituals.

Structure of the Tombs

The cemetery spans about 1 square kilometer and contains 42 clusters of tombs, each consisting of 10 individual graves. The tombs are constructed with four stone slabs forming an enclosure, topped by a large capstone. Burial customs observed include:

• Urn Burials: Bodies placed in large terra-cotta urns.
• Cist Burials: Ashes of the deceased interred in stone chambers.

Artefacts and Grave Goods

Excavations revealed a variety of grave goods, including clay pots, iron tools, copper and gold artifacts, and jewelry such as beads and necklaces. Notably, some gemstones in these necklaces are not native to Sri Lanka, suggesting ancient trade or cultural exchanges with neighboring regions like India. These findings echo the elaborate burial customs seen in other ancient civilizations, such as Egypt.

Significance and Theories

Unlike large, populous settlements like Anuradhapura during the same era, no evidence of a large settlement has been found near Ibbankatuwa. This anomaly has led to speculation that the site belonged to a specialized or elite group of people. The site offers valuable insights into burial practices, trade links, and the socio-economic structure of early Sri Lankan societies.

Tourism and Accessibility

The Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs were developed as a tourist attraction in 2017.

• Visiting Tips: Morning or evening visits are recommended to avoid the midday heat.
• Travel Options: Accessible by bicycle, tuk-tuk, or private vehicle.
• Duration: The tour typically lasts 1.5 hours.

Key Highlights

• Proximity to Dambulla and other historic landmarks like Sigiriya and Pidurangala.
• Active archaeological exploration, adding an air of mystery to the site.
• Connection to the prehistoric and early iron age, bridging Sri Lanka’s ancient and protohistoric eras.

Whether you are a history buff or a casual traveler, the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs provide a fascinating journey into Sri Lanka’s prehistoric heritage, making it a must-visit destination.