Monaragala

Moneragala district belonging to the Uva Province according to the present administrative demarcations had functioned as a significant area of the Rohana kingdom in the past too, which is confirmed by historical sources. Archaeologists have identified within this heritage zone many important factors representing the pre-historic period of Sri Lanka. For example, through excavations done in the Nilgala cave a human skull and skeletal remains of a dog or a fox have been discovered.

Within this heritage zone are located Kataragama, Yudaganawa, Buttala, Maligawila, Galabedda, Randeniwala, which are important regarding several historical events in Sri Lankan history. Buttala, Dematamal Vihara, Yudaganawa, Etimale, etc. are important regarding incidents connected with Dutugemunu and Saddhatissa brothers. As Prince Saddhatissa took action to cultivate about one hundred thousand (lassa) paddy fields (vel) in the Uva Province this area is even today known as Vellassa. King Valagamba who went into hiding because of aggressions in Anuradhapura received significant assistance from Moneragala including the Rohana kingdom for his security and to mobilise military forces. Moneragla is famous for several incidents of some kings of the Kandyan kingdom and viharas, Tampita viharas and paintings, etc. are scattered over this heritage zone. Chronicles and inscriptions at Gadaladeniya and Nathe Devala confirm that a large number of people were present in Uva who worked against the aggressors. At the battle that took place in Randeniya under Rajasinghe II, Portuguese suffered an enormous defeat. The Portuguese leader Constantine de Sa met with his death. A notable contribution was received from areas including Moneragala for the Kandyan revolt of 1818 and those who joined the battle namely, Keppettipola, Butewe Rala, Kohukumbure Rate Rala et al could be identified as important individuals who lived in this area.

Heritage management of this zone was begun by the Central Cultural Fund in 2013 and such activities are done centred on Buduruvagala.