July 07, Colombo (LNW): A nationwide initiative to preserve 1,000 archaeological sites across Sri Lanka officially gets under way today (07), marking the start of this year’s Archaeology Week and a renewed effort to strengthen the protection of the country’s cultural and historical heritage.
Deputy Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Gamagedara Dissanayake said the programme is intended to identify locations of archaeological and historical importance while accelerating excavation, research and conservation work at sites requiring urgent attention.
The first stage of the project will focus on the conservation of 100 selected sites, with work commencing during Archaeology Week. The remaining locations will be restored in phases as part of the wider national programme.
A key feature of the initiative is the establishment of Community Conservation Committees in areas surrounding the identified sites. The committees are expected to encourage local residents to take a more active role in safeguarding archaeological landmarks and preserving the nation’s heritage for future generations.
According to the Deputy Minister, the committees will be invited to submit proposals and recommendations on conservation priorities, archaeological excavations and research activities. These initiatives will be carried out under the supervision and technical guidance of the Department of Archaeology to ensure that preservation work meets recognised professional standards.
This year’s Archaeology Week is being held under the theme, Bringing Heritage to Life, highlighting the government’s focus on combining scientific conservation with stronger community participation to protect historically significant locations across the country.
Dissanayake acknowledged that public involvement in conserving archaeological sites has traditionally been limited, making community engagement a central element of the new programme. He said the government also intends to formally designate the selected locations as protected archaeological sites, providing them with greater recognition and legal safeguards.
He expressed confidence that closer cooperation between local communities and the Department of Archaeology would help improve long-term conservation efforts, adding that the success of the initiative depends not only on government action but also on the active participation of the public in preserving Sri Lanka’s rich archaeological legacy.