Serendib Magazine - March 2013

In this issue

Considered by many experts to be the oldest still standing wooden bridge in the world, the Bogoda Bridge was built around 400 years ago to assist Buddhist pilgrims from Badulla crossing the rock strewn Gallanda Oya on their way to worship the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.

Located in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, Pahiyangala is a large cave dating back to prehistoric times, where research currently in progress, is providing clues to Sri Lanka’s ‘ancient man’ – known as the ‘Balangoda man’.

Most people have heard of Ceylon Tea. Very few are aware of the history of how tea came to the Island; a history that inevitably draws in China, where tea fifirst became a beverage some 5,000 years ago.

The stirring story of how Yapahuwa Rock became Buvenekabahu’s bulwark against the invading Chola forces; and how he made it his last stand to save the imperiled Sinhala dynasty of kings.

The colour of blood, passion and life, Sri Lanka’s rubies have mesmerised the world with their brilliant beauty since ancient times.