An Archaeological Study to Identify the Ancient Settlement Pattern of Anuradhapura with Special Reference to the "Deegapasana" Rock Outcrop in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Anuradhapura is a remarkable landscape with a continues history and human interactions from the Prehistoric periods. Natural settings of the landscape, directly and indirectly, influenced for the settlement pattern as well as the centrality of the area. Among them, the "Deegapasana" rock outcrop was a prominent feature which helped to make a favorable environment for the ancient inhabitants. The natural landscape greatly helped early migrants to form a well-planned fortified city and a hydraulic agriculture landscape in the vicinity. The main intention of this research was to identify the horizontal distribution of the material culture as well as the techno-cultural evolution of the area. Also, it was intended to analyze the horizontal connectivity with the Anuradhapura citadel stratification. Direct and indirect impacts from the rock outcrop to the evolution of entire cultural landscape was studied in related to the geospatial data. Further, the interrelationship between ancient irrigation landscape and the rock outcrop was studied. A desk-based assessment was carried out to collect information from published and unpublished materials. During this process, multiple sources of information were obtained. Primary data were collected through a field survey and recorded as photographs, plans and field notes. Different methods were used to collect and record data. Geographical Information System (GIS) database was created integrating the spatial data gathered through numerous methods including GPS point survey and field exploration. This research was able to identify the influence of Deegapasana rock-outcrop for the settlement pattern of the ancient Anuradhapura. It was a favorable factor for the settlement layout during different techno-cultural phases. Further interlinkages can distinguish from the ancient industrial activities, water management system, and the built environment of the area.