Monaragala District: History
=== Prehistoric Period ===
The history of the Monaragala District dates back to the prehistoric era, substantiated by significant archaeological evidence discovered across the region. Archaeological findings in areas bordering the Uva Highlands, such as Bandarawela, suggest that the region was inhabited by prehistoric hunter-gatherer communities who utilized microlithic stone tools. It is believed that these nomadic groups migrated towards the dry zone plains and forests of Monaragala in search of food, establishing temporary settlements in caves and open-air sites. They subsisted by hunting animals such as deer and monitor lizards, and by foraging for wild fruits and tubers.
Prominent archaeological sites confirming this prehistoric presence include:
Kurullangala: located on the border of Ella and Wellawaya, this site features a treacherous rock face adorned with prehistoric cave paintings estimated to be over 5,000 years old. These ancient depictions include imagery of giant birds, various animals, and human figures.
Pillillagoda Lena (cave): a significant cave site used by prehistoric inhabitants. The cave features primitive paintings and line drawings etched directly onto the natural rock surface using fingers or crude wooden implements, without the use of plaster.
Maligavila Alugal-ge: situated near the banks of the Hulanda Oya, this natural rock cave served as a dwelling for prehistoric humans. In later periods, it was converted into a Buddhist cave monastery, as evidenced by ancient inscriptions and ruins found in the vicinity.
Mayuragiriya: located near Monaragala, this site consists of mountainous terrain with natural caves that served as temporary shelters for prehistoric hunter-gatherer groups.
These sites provide crucial insights into the evolutionary history of human activity in the region, highlighting the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled ancient communities.
The Proto-historic Iron Age in Sri Lanka (c. 1000 BCE – 500 BCE) marked a transformative period for the Monaragala region, characterized by the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled agrarian communities. The fertile river basins of the Wellassa region, particularly along the Kumbukkan Oya, Menik Ganga, and Hada Oya, provided an ideal environment for this shift.
Agrarian Expansion: the adoption of iron technology enabled the clearing of dense forests, facilitating large-scale paddy cultivation. This era witnessed the inception of small-scale tank cascade systems(Ellanga), laying the groundwork for the future hydraulic civilization of the Anuradhapura and Ruhuna Kingdoms.
Domesticated Agriculture: the introduction of iron implements, such as axes and hoes, allowed for systematic farming. Evidence suggests the domestication of cattle and horses, supporting agricultural labor and food security.
Technological Advancement: the region’s inhabitants demonstrated mastery over ceramic production, specifically Black and Red Ware (BRW). This pottery, created through reduction-alternative firing techniques, was widely used for food storage and cooking.
Trade and Ornamentation: the discovery of glass and mineral beads indicates that the region engaged in regional trade networks, possibly extending to Southern India. …