Anuradhapura District is a historical and culturally significant region located in the North-Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is named after the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which was once the capital of Sri Lanka and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The district is known for its rich history, dating back to the 4th century BC when it was established as the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka. It was a thriving center of Buddhist civilization and a hub of political, religious, and cultural activities for many centuries. The ruins of Anuradhapura showcase the grandeur of the ancient city, with its massive dagobas (stupas), monasteries, palaces, and intricately carved stone sculptures.