US partners with Sri Lanka to preserve historic Thuparama Image House in Polonnaruwa

US Ambassador Julie Chung with Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi at ceremony marking launch of Thuparama Image House conservation project 

US Ambassador Julie Chung and Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi tour historic Thuparama Image House 

Thuparama Image House 

The US Embassy in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Central Cultural Fund, recently launched a new conservation project to protect the ancient Thuparama Image House, a key site within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City. 

This initiative, funded by a $ 109,000 grant (over Rs. 32 million) from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), reflects US commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage for future generations. The event was attended by US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung and Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi. 

At the ceremony, Ambassador Chung emphasised, “The United States and Sri Lanka share a long history of partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. Together, we have worked on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting sustainable economic growth, and preserving cultural heritage, such as the Thuparama Image House. Through initiatives like the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, on behalf of the American people, we continue to help Sri Lanka protect its heritage, promote sustainable tourism, and attract global visitors to explore its historical and cultural richness.” 

Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs Minister Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, who attended the ceremony, remarked, “The United States, through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, once again demonstrates its commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures. This collaboration strengthens our bond and reflects the US dedication to preserving not only Sri Lanka’s heritage but also the connection between our nations.” 

The Thuparama Image House, constructed in the 12th century as part of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, is a monumental site with a distinctive vaulted brick roof and stunning stucco decorations. This historical gem has suffered damage over time due to environmental factors, and the preservation project aims to prevent further deterioration while raising awareness about its cultural and historical significance. 

For over 23 years, the US Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) has supported cultural preservation projects in more than 140 countries globally. In Sri Lanka, since 2001, the US has collaborated with local archaeologists, historians, and faith communities on 17 significant cultural preservation initiatives, funded by $ 1.5 million from the American people. These projects include the conservation of the Rajagala Buddhist forest monastery, the preservation of collections at the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, and the restoration of the Batticaloa Dutch Fort. Most recently, the US has supported the preservation of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace and Archaeology Museum, located within the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic complex. Beyond land-based efforts, the US is also helping to protect the Godawaya shipwreck—the oldest known shipwreck in the Asia-Pacific region—off the coast of Hambantota. 

Cultural heritage stands as a powerful reminder of humanity’s shared history and contributions. Through its preservation efforts, the United States shows deep respect for diverse cultures around the world. From restoring ancient structures to conserving rare manuscripts, safeguarding vital archaeological sites, and documenting disappearing traditions, AFCP projects protect invaluable heritage. AFCP initiatives preserve history, strengthen civil society by fostering unity and dialogue, support good governance through transparency and accountability, and promote political and economic stability by generating jobs, income, and sustainable growth.