Secretary Defence visits Kooragala

The Secretary Defence and Urban Development Gotabaya Rajapaksa made a visit to the Kooragala ancient archeological site on 8 April.

Rakapaksa made this visit to observe the value of inspect site which is similar to other archeological sites in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, in order to look at possible conservation efforts.

Speaking at the site, the Secretary Defence stated: “Irrespective of race we must protect the location while preserving religious harmony among the communities.”

Discussions were held regarding the possible excavation and conservation of the Kooragala ancient site with Department of Archeology Director General Dr. Senarath Dissanayake. He also stated that the initiative will benefit all Sri Lankans and foreign tourists as well, who appreciate the real value of ancient archeological sites such as this.

The Secretary Defence also made an inspection tour around the site premises. The history of the Kooragala goes back twenty centuries (200 BC) where legends say that hundreds of ‘Maha rahath’ who attained the supreme bliss of Nibbana, resided at the location while engaging in their religious activities.

Ven. Ellawala Medhananda Thero, Moulavis, Chief of National Intelligence Major General (Retd) Kapila Hendawitharana, officials of the Department of Archaeology and members of the public attended the event as well.