EMV Undergraduates Explore Urban Heritage and Planning in Anuradhapura
Third-year undergraduates from the Department of Estate Management and Valuation, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, embarked on an insightful two-day field visit to the historic city of Anuradhapura on 7th and 8th April 2025 as part of their coursework for EMV 3373: Urban and Regional Planning.
The field visit aimed to deepen students’ understanding of the historical evolution and cultural significance of Anuradhapura’s urban layout. It also focused on enhancing their analytical, presentation, writing, and creative skills by engaging with spatial planning elements and historical documents.
During the visit, students explored a range of urban planning themes including:
- City layout and zoning practices
- Cultural and religious influences on the city form
- Ancient irrigation and water management systems
- Architectural styles and planning strategies
Highlights of Day One
The first day featured visits to iconic heritage sites central to Anuradhapura’s identity:
- Ruwanweli Maha Seya
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya
- Twin Ponds
- Samadhi Buddha Statue
- Jethawanaramaya
- Abayagiriya
- Ranmasu Uyana
Students also participated in a mini field project titled “Identifying Tourist Perceptions & Experiences in Anuradhapura.” This initiative involved engaging with both local and international visitors at Anuradhapura and Mihintale, enabling students to explore the intersection of urban heritage and cultural tourism.
Highlights of Day Two
The second day extended beyond the sacred city:
- A visit to Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, offered students spiritual and cultural context.
- At Kaludiya Pokuna, students experienced a harmonious blend of ancient monastic architecture and natural landscapes.
- A session with the Urban Development Authority (UDA) at their Anuradhapura office provided a professional perspective on current development plans and challenges in balancing heritage conservation with urban growth.
- The final stop was the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, where students reflected on Sri Lanka’s medieval urbanism and its enduring architectural legacy.
The field visit was academically enriched by the presence of Emeritus Professor Samitha Manawadu from the University of Moratuwa, whose expert guidance offered valuable context and depth to the learning experience.
This immersive field study successfully bridged historical understanding with modern planning perspectives, reinforcing the department’s commitment to learning beyond the classroom.
