The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Central Cultural Fund, has launched a project to conserve the Thuparama Image House in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City.
This initiative is supported by a $109,000 grant (over Rs. 32 million) from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung and Sri Lanka’s Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, officially inaugurated the project, underscoring the United States’ dedication to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Chung highlighted the enduring partnership between the U.S. and Sri Lanka, rooted in shared values and mutual respect. She emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage to promote sustainable tourism and economic growth.
“Through initiatives like the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, we continue to help Sri Lanka protect its heritage and attract global visitors to experience its historical richness,” she stated.
Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi praised the collaboration, acknowledging the U.S.’s ongoing commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures. He remarked that the partnership strengthens bilateral ties and reflects the shared dedication to heritage conservation.
The Thuparama Image House, dating back to the 12th century, is a remarkable example of ancient Sri Lankan architecture, featuring a unique vaulted brick roof and intricate stucco decorations.
However, environmental factors have caused significant damage to the site over time. The conservation project aims to halt further deterioration, preserving the structure and raising awareness about its cultural significance.
Established over 23 years ago, the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) has supported projects in over 140 countries. Since 2001, the fund has provided $1.5 million to Sri Lanka for 17 preservation initiatives.
These include restoring the Rajagala Buddhist forest monastery, conserving artifacts at the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, and rehabilitating the Batticaloa Dutch Fort.
More recent efforts involve preserving the Kandyan Kings’ Palace within the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic complex and protecting the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known shipwreck in the Asia-Pacific region.
Through these projects, AFCP underscores the importance of cultural heritage as a shared human legacy. Its initiatives not only preserve history but also foster unity, dialogue, and sustainable growth.
By restoring ancient structures, conserving manuscripts, and safeguarding archaeological sites, the program promotes civil society and creates opportunities for economic and political stability.
The conservation of the Thuparama Image House is yet another testament to the United States’ respect for global cultural diversity and its dedication to protecting irreplaceable treasures for future generations.
