The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Central Cultural Fund, has launched a conservation project to preserve the Thuparama Image House, a key site within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City. The initiative, supported by a $109,000 grant (over Rs. 32 million) from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), underscores the United States’ commitment to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage for future generations.
The launch event, held on Friday, was attended by U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung and Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi.
Ambassador Chung remarked on the strong partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka, emphasizing shared values and cooperation in preserving cultural heritage. She highlighted the broader impact of such initiatives, stating, “Through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, we help Sri Lanka protect its heritage, promote sustainable tourism, and attract global visitors to explore its historical and cultural richness.”
Minister Sunil Senevi echoed these sentiments, noting that the project reflects the deepening bond between the two nations and the U.S.’s continued support in preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures.
The Thuparama Image House, dating back to the 12th century Polonnaruwa Kingdom, is renowned for its distinctive vaulted brick roof and intricate stucco decorations. Over the centuries, environmental factors have taken a toll on this historical marvel. The conservation project aims to arrest further deterioration and raise awareness of its cultural and historical significance.
For over two decades, the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation has supported cultural preservation in more than 140 countries. Since 2001, Sri Lanka has benefited from 17 AFCP-funded initiatives, totaling $1.5 million. Notable projects include the conservation of the Rajagala Buddhist forest monastery, the preservation of artifacts at the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, and the restoration of the Batticaloa Dutch Fort.
Beyond land-based efforts, the U.S. has also contributed to the preservation of the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known shipwreck in the Asia-Pacific region, located off the coast of Hambantota.
This latest conservation initiative reaffirms the U.S.’s dedication to cultural preservation while fostering sustainable tourism and deeper bilateral ties with Sri Lanka.
