Tissa Wewa, also known as Tissawewa, is another notable ancient reservoir located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Here’s an overview:
Tissa Wewa was built by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE. It is one of the earliest and largest reservoirs constructed during ancient times in Sri Lanka. The reservoir is situated close to the Mahavihara, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Sri Lanka, and it played a crucial role in the irrigation system of the region.
The primary purpose of Tissa Wewa was to store water from the Tissa River (now known as Malwathu Oya) during the rainy season and distribute it for agricultural purposes throughout the year. This enabled the cultivation of rice and other crops, supporting the population of Anuradhapura and contributing to its economic prosperity.
Tissa Wewa is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and has historically been an important site for both irrigation and recreational activities. The reservoir and its surroundings are also significant in the context of religious and cultural heritage, as they are associated with ancient Buddhist monastic complexes and historical events.
Today, Tissa Wewa remains a popular tourist attraction and a serene spot where visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, observe wildlife, and appreciate the historical and architectural legacy of ancient Sri Lanka. Its conservation underscores its importance not only as a hydraulic marvel but also as a symbol of the advanced civilization that thrived in Anuradhapura during ancient times.