Tissa, later Devanampiya Tissa was one of the earliest rulers of Sri Lanka based at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura from 307BC to 267BC. His reign was notable for the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka under the aegis of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The primary source for his reign is the Mahavamsa, which in turn is based on the more ancient Dipavamsa.
Reign
Tissa was the second son of Mutasiva of Anuradhapura. The Mahavamsa describes him as being "foremost among all his brothers in virtue and intelligence". At the time when he ascended to the throne of Anuradhapura, the majority of his subjects were Hindu as they had been since the arrival of the first Sinhala colonists on the island around 300 years previously.
The Mahavamsa mentions an early friendship with Ashoka. Chapter IX of the chronicle mentions that "the two monarchs, Devanampiyatissa and Dhammasoka, already had been friends a long time, though they had never seen each other", Dhammasoka being an alternate name for Ashoka. The chronicle also mentions Tissa sending gifts to the mighty emperor of the Maurya; in reply Ashoka sent not only gifts but also the news that he had converted to Buddhism, and a plea to Tissa to adopt the faith as well. The king does not appear to have done this at the time, instead adopting the name Devānaṃpiya "Beloved of the Gods" and having himself consecrated King of Lanka in a lavish celebration.
Tissa Wewa | Anuradhapura | Sri Lanka - During Sunset
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by the King Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka.
published: 11 Jan 2024
Devanampiya Tissa | His reign mark the arrival of Buddhism to Srilanka | Srilankan History -3
#DevanampiyaTissa #Buddhism #SrilankaHistory
published: 01 Apr 2020
King Devanampiyatissa (307-267 BCE)
Tissa, later Devanampiya Tissa was one of the earliest kings of Sri Lanka based at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura from 307 BC to 267 BC.[citation needed] His reign was notable for the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka under the aegis of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The primary source for his reign is the Mahavamsa, which in turn is based on the more ancient Dipavamsa.
published: 18 May 2020
King Tissa, Buddhist Patron in Sri Lanka
This one is all about King Tissa of Sri Lanka, Devanampiyatissa Tissa, beloved of Gods by his good friend Emperor Ashoka. Once again we see Jainism present in Sri Lanka prior to the advent of Buddhism. This very detailed history of King Tissa along with much art and architecture from Anuradhapura make this superior.
published: 23 Apr 2009
Wonderful place #Mihintale #Anuradhapura #SriLanka #Mahind and King #Devanampiyatissa
published: 29 Dec 2023
Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya | Buddhist Temple | Anuradhapura | Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 Episode:-02
Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tissa Wewa (Tisa tank) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family.
The ancient Meghagiri Vihara or Meygiri Vihara is presently identified as the Isurumuni Vihara.[1] It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura.[2] After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside.[2] King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya and named it as "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" giving the names of his 2 daughters and his name.[3] There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built o...
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura
Thissa Wewa is a historic reservoir located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, and it holds significant cultural and historical importance in the region. Built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE, Thissa Wewa is one of the oldest and largest reservoirs in the country. The name "Thissa Wewa" is derived from the king's name, Devanampiya Tissa.
Covering an expansive area, Thissa Wewa was constructed by creating a massive embankment to store water, ensuring a stable and reliable water supply for the flourishing city of Anuradhapura. The reservoir not only served as a vital water source for agricultural purposes bu...
published: 24 Nov 2023
History of King Priyanama tissa,Sri lanka
published: 04 Jun 2023
Kavan Tissa, Prince of Ruhuna Top #5 Facts
published: 31 Jan 2016
Chapter 8 King Mutasiva to King Devanam Piya Tissa
Arrival of Buddhism
First inscriptions were found from this era
Association with King Asoka
Establishing King Asoka's identity using Mahavamsa details
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by the King Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anura...
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by the King Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka.
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by the King Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka.
Tissa, later Devanampiya Tissa was one of the earliest kings of Sri Lanka based at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura from 307 BC to 267 BC.[citation needed] H...
Tissa, later Devanampiya Tissa was one of the earliest kings of Sri Lanka based at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura from 307 BC to 267 BC.[citation needed] His reign was notable for the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka under the aegis of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The primary source for his reign is the Mahavamsa, which in turn is based on the more ancient Dipavamsa.
Tissa, later Devanampiya Tissa was one of the earliest kings of Sri Lanka based at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura from 307 BC to 267 BC.[citation needed] His reign was notable for the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka under the aegis of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The primary source for his reign is the Mahavamsa, which in turn is based on the more ancient Dipavamsa.
This one is all about King Tissa of Sri Lanka, Devanampiyatissa Tissa, beloved of Gods by his good friend Emperor Ashoka. Once again we see Jainism present in...
This one is all about King Tissa of Sri Lanka, Devanampiyatissa Tissa, beloved of Gods by his good friend Emperor Ashoka. Once again we see Jainism present in Sri Lanka prior to the advent of Buddhism. This very detailed history of King Tissa along with much art and architecture from Anuradhapura make this superior.
This one is all about King Tissa of Sri Lanka, Devanampiyatissa Tissa, beloved of Gods by his good friend Emperor Ashoka. Once again we see Jainism present in Sri Lanka prior to the advent of Buddhism. This very detailed history of King Tissa along with much art and architecture from Anuradhapura make this superior.
Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tissa Wewa (Tisa tank) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vih...
Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tissa Wewa (Tisa tank) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family.
The ancient Meghagiri Vihara or Meygiri Vihara is presently identified as the Isurumuni Vihara.[1] It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura.[2] After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside.[2] King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya and named it as "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" giving the names of his 2 daughters and his name.[3] There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. It can be seen that the constructional work of this stupa belongs to the present period. Lower down on both sides of a cleft, in a rock that appears to rise out of a pool, have been carved the figures of elephants. On the rock is carved the figure of a horse. The carving of Isurumuniya lovers on the slab has been brought from another place and placed it there. A few yards away from this vihara is the Ranmasu Uyana.
Isurumuniya là một ngôi chùa Phật giáo nằm gần Tissa Wewa (bể Tisa) ở Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Có bốn hình chạm khắc được quan tâm đặc biệt trong tịnh xá này. Họ là Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond và The Royal Family.
Tịnh xá Meghagiri cổ đại hay Tịnh xá Meygiri hiện được xác định là Tịnh xá Isurumuni.[1] Nó được xây dựng bởi vua Devanampiya Tissa (307 TCN đến 267 TCN), người trị vì ở thủ đô Anuradhapura của Sri Lanka cổ đại.[2] Sau khi 500 người con thuộc tầng lớp thượng lưu xuất gia, Isurumuniya được xây dựng để họ trú ngụ.[2] Vua Kasyapa I (473-491 sau Công nguyên) một lần nữa cải tạo tịnh xá này và đặt tên là "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" theo tên của 2 người con gái và tên của ông.[3] Có một tịnh xá nối liền với một hang động và bên trên là một vách đá. Một bảo tháp nhỏ được xây dựng trên đó. Có thể thấy rằng công việc xây dựng bảo tháp này thuộc về thời kỳ hiện tại. Xuống dưới hai bên khe đá, ở một tảng đá như nhô lên khỏi vực, có chạm khắc hình những con voi. Trên tảng đá có khắc hình con ngựa. Hình khắc đôi tình nhân Isurumuniya trên phiến đá được mang từ nơi khác đến và đặt ở đó. Cách tịnh xá này vài thước là Ranmasu Uyana.
Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tissa Wewa (Tisa tank) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family.
The ancient Meghagiri Vihara or Meygiri Vihara is presently identified as the Isurumuni Vihara.[1] It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura.[2] After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside.[2] King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya and named it as "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" giving the names of his 2 daughters and his name.[3] There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. It can be seen that the constructional work of this stupa belongs to the present period. Lower down on both sides of a cleft, in a rock that appears to rise out of a pool, have been carved the figures of elephants. On the rock is carved the figure of a horse. The carving of Isurumuniya lovers on the slab has been brought from another place and placed it there. A few yards away from this vihara is the Ranmasu Uyana.
Isurumuniya là một ngôi chùa Phật giáo nằm gần Tissa Wewa (bể Tisa) ở Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Có bốn hình chạm khắc được quan tâm đặc biệt trong tịnh xá này. Họ là Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond và The Royal Family.
Tịnh xá Meghagiri cổ đại hay Tịnh xá Meygiri hiện được xác định là Tịnh xá Isurumuni.[1] Nó được xây dựng bởi vua Devanampiya Tissa (307 TCN đến 267 TCN), người trị vì ở thủ đô Anuradhapura của Sri Lanka cổ đại.[2] Sau khi 500 người con thuộc tầng lớp thượng lưu xuất gia, Isurumuniya được xây dựng để họ trú ngụ.[2] Vua Kasyapa I (473-491 sau Công nguyên) một lần nữa cải tạo tịnh xá này và đặt tên là "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" theo tên của 2 người con gái và tên của ông.[3] Có một tịnh xá nối liền với một hang động và bên trên là một vách đá. Một bảo tháp nhỏ được xây dựng trên đó. Có thể thấy rằng công việc xây dựng bảo tháp này thuộc về thời kỳ hiện tại. Xuống dưới hai bên khe đá, ở một tảng đá như nhô lên khỏi vực, có chạm khắc hình những con voi. Trên tảng đá có khắc hình con ngựa. Hình khắc đôi tình nhân Isurumuniya trên phiến đá được mang từ nơi khác đến và đặt ở đó. Cách tịnh xá này vài thước là Ranmasu Uyana.
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura
T...
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura
Thissa Wewa is a historic reservoir located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, and it holds significant cultural and historical importance in the region. Built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE, Thissa Wewa is one of the oldest and largest reservoirs in the country. The name "Thissa Wewa" is derived from the king's name, Devanampiya Tissa.
Covering an expansive area, Thissa Wewa was constructed by creating a massive embankment to store water, ensuring a stable and reliable water supply for the flourishing city of Anuradhapura. The reservoir not only served as a vital water source for agricultural purposes but also played a crucial role in the overall urban planning of the ancient city.
The strategic location of Thissa Wewa contributed to its significance in the development of Anuradhapura. The reservoir is situated close to important monastic complexes and religious sites, such as the Isurumuniya Temple and the Mahamevuna Uyana. This proximity reflects the interconnectedness of water management, agriculture, and religious life in ancient Sri Lanka.
Thissa Wewa is not only a testament to ancient hydraulic engineering but also a symbol of the sophisticated urban planning and agricultural practices of the time. The reservoir's construction involved intricate knowledge of hydrology and landscape architecture, showcasing the advanced skills of ancient Sri Lankan engineers. The reservoir's embankment, which stretches for several kilometers, stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering, emphasizing the resourcefulness of the people of Anuradhapura.
The serene surroundings of Thissa Wewa make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The reservoir's scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, attracts visitors seeking a tranquil escape. The expansive water body reflects the surrounding greenery and ancient ruins, creating a picturesque setting that transports visitors back in time.
The cultural and historical significance of Thissa Wewa is also intertwined with local legends and folklore. The reservoir is said to be associated with several stories from the life of King Devanampiya Tissa and the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. These stories add a layer of mystique and charm to the already captivating allure of Thissa Wewa.
Preservation and conservation efforts have been undertaken to safeguard Thissa Wewa and its surroundings. The reservoir's historical importance has prompted initiatives to maintain its structural integrity and protect it from encroachments. These efforts aim to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate the historical and cultural legacy embodied by Thissa Wewa.
In conclusion, Thissa Wewa in Anuradhapura stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Its role in providing water for agriculture and urban life, coupled with its scenic beauty and historical significance, makes it a noteworthy site for both locals and visitors. As a reservoir with a history dating back centuries, Thissa Wewa continues to be a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
#ThissaWewa #DevanampiyaTissa #Anuradhapura
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura
Thissa Wewa is a historic reservoir located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, and it holds significant cultural and historical importance in the region. Built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE, Thissa Wewa is one of the oldest and largest reservoirs in the country. The name "Thissa Wewa" is derived from the king's name, Devanampiya Tissa.
Covering an expansive area, Thissa Wewa was constructed by creating a massive embankment to store water, ensuring a stable and reliable water supply for the flourishing city of Anuradhapura. The reservoir not only served as a vital water source for agricultural purposes but also played a crucial role in the overall urban planning of the ancient city.
The strategic location of Thissa Wewa contributed to its significance in the development of Anuradhapura. The reservoir is situated close to important monastic complexes and religious sites, such as the Isurumuniya Temple and the Mahamevuna Uyana. This proximity reflects the interconnectedness of water management, agriculture, and religious life in ancient Sri Lanka.
Thissa Wewa is not only a testament to ancient hydraulic engineering but also a symbol of the sophisticated urban planning and agricultural practices of the time. The reservoir's construction involved intricate knowledge of hydrology and landscape architecture, showcasing the advanced skills of ancient Sri Lankan engineers. The reservoir's embankment, which stretches for several kilometers, stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering, emphasizing the resourcefulness of the people of Anuradhapura.
The serene surroundings of Thissa Wewa make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The reservoir's scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, attracts visitors seeking a tranquil escape. The expansive water body reflects the surrounding greenery and ancient ruins, creating a picturesque setting that transports visitors back in time.
The cultural and historical significance of Thissa Wewa is also intertwined with local legends and folklore. The reservoir is said to be associated with several stories from the life of King Devanampiya Tissa and the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. These stories add a layer of mystique and charm to the already captivating allure of Thissa Wewa.
Preservation and conservation efforts have been undertaken to safeguard Thissa Wewa and its surroundings. The reservoir's historical importance has prompted initiatives to maintain its structural integrity and protect it from encroachments. These efforts aim to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate the historical and cultural legacy embodied by Thissa Wewa.
In conclusion, Thissa Wewa in Anuradhapura stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Its role in providing water for agriculture and urban life, coupled with its scenic beauty and historical significance, makes it a noteworthy site for both locals and visitors. As a reservoir with a history dating back centuries, Thissa Wewa continues to be a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
#ThissaWewa #DevanampiyaTissa #Anuradhapura
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by the King Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka.
Tissa, later Devanampiya Tissa was one of the earliest kings of Sri Lanka based at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura from 307 BC to 267 BC.[citation needed] His reign was notable for the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka under the aegis of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The primary source for his reign is the Mahavamsa, which in turn is based on the more ancient Dipavamsa.
This one is all about King Tissa of Sri Lanka, Devanampiyatissa Tissa, beloved of Gods by his good friend Emperor Ashoka. Once again we see Jainism present in Sri Lanka prior to the advent of Buddhism. This very detailed history of King Tissa along with much art and architecture from Anuradhapura make this superior.
Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tissa Wewa (Tisa tank) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family.
The ancient Meghagiri Vihara or Meygiri Vihara is presently identified as the Isurumuni Vihara.[1] It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura.[2] After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside.[2] King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya and named it as "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" giving the names of his 2 daughters and his name.[3] There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. It can be seen that the constructional work of this stupa belongs to the present period. Lower down on both sides of a cleft, in a rock that appears to rise out of a pool, have been carved the figures of elephants. On the rock is carved the figure of a horse. The carving of Isurumuniya lovers on the slab has been brought from another place and placed it there. A few yards away from this vihara is the Ranmasu Uyana.
Isurumuniya là một ngôi chùa Phật giáo nằm gần Tissa Wewa (bể Tisa) ở Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Có bốn hình chạm khắc được quan tâm đặc biệt trong tịnh xá này. Họ là Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond và The Royal Family.
Tịnh xá Meghagiri cổ đại hay Tịnh xá Meygiri hiện được xác định là Tịnh xá Isurumuni.[1] Nó được xây dựng bởi vua Devanampiya Tissa (307 TCN đến 267 TCN), người trị vì ở thủ đô Anuradhapura của Sri Lanka cổ đại.[2] Sau khi 500 người con thuộc tầng lớp thượng lưu xuất gia, Isurumuniya được xây dựng để họ trú ngụ.[2] Vua Kasyapa I (473-491 sau Công nguyên) một lần nữa cải tạo tịnh xá này và đặt tên là "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" theo tên của 2 người con gái và tên của ông.[3] Có một tịnh xá nối liền với một hang động và bên trên là một vách đá. Một bảo tháp nhỏ được xây dựng trên đó. Có thể thấy rằng công việc xây dựng bảo tháp này thuộc về thời kỳ hiện tại. Xuống dưới hai bên khe đá, ở một tảng đá như nhô lên khỏi vực, có chạm khắc hình những con voi. Trên tảng đá có khắc hình con ngựa. Hình khắc đôi tình nhân Isurumuniya trên phiến đá được mang từ nơi khác đến và đặt ở đó. Cách tịnh xá này vài thước là Ranmasu Uyana.
Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir, was built by Devanampiya Tissa (3rd century BC) in order to increase the water supply to his capital city of Anuradhapura
Thissa Wewa is a historic reservoir located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, and it holds significant cultural and historical importance in the region. Built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE, Thissa Wewa is one of the oldest and largest reservoirs in the country. The name "Thissa Wewa" is derived from the king's name, Devanampiya Tissa.
Covering an expansive area, Thissa Wewa was constructed by creating a massive embankment to store water, ensuring a stable and reliable water supply for the flourishing city of Anuradhapura. The reservoir not only served as a vital water source for agricultural purposes but also played a crucial role in the overall urban planning of the ancient city.
The strategic location of Thissa Wewa contributed to its significance in the development of Anuradhapura. The reservoir is situated close to important monastic complexes and religious sites, such as the Isurumuniya Temple and the Mahamevuna Uyana. This proximity reflects the interconnectedness of water management, agriculture, and religious life in ancient Sri Lanka.
Thissa Wewa is not only a testament to ancient hydraulic engineering but also a symbol of the sophisticated urban planning and agricultural practices of the time. The reservoir's construction involved intricate knowledge of hydrology and landscape architecture, showcasing the advanced skills of ancient Sri Lankan engineers. The reservoir's embankment, which stretches for several kilometers, stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering, emphasizing the resourcefulness of the people of Anuradhapura.
The serene surroundings of Thissa Wewa make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The reservoir's scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, attracts visitors seeking a tranquil escape. The expansive water body reflects the surrounding greenery and ancient ruins, creating a picturesque setting that transports visitors back in time.
The cultural and historical significance of Thissa Wewa is also intertwined with local legends and folklore. The reservoir is said to be associated with several stories from the life of King Devanampiya Tissa and the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. These stories add a layer of mystique and charm to the already captivating allure of Thissa Wewa.
Preservation and conservation efforts have been undertaken to safeguard Thissa Wewa and its surroundings. The reservoir's historical importance has prompted initiatives to maintain its structural integrity and protect it from encroachments. These efforts aim to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate the historical and cultural legacy embodied by Thissa Wewa.
In conclusion, Thissa Wewa in Anuradhapura stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Its role in providing water for agriculture and urban life, coupled with its scenic beauty and historical significance, makes it a noteworthy site for both locals and visitors. As a reservoir with a history dating back centuries, Thissa Wewa continues to be a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
#ThissaWewa #DevanampiyaTissa #Anuradhapura
Tissa, later Devanampiya Tissa was one of the earliest rulers of Sri Lanka based at the ancient capital of Anuradhapura from 307BC to 267BC. His reign was notable for the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka under the aegis of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The primary source for his reign is the Mahavamsa, which in turn is based on the more ancient Dipavamsa.
Reign
Tissa was the second son of Mutasiva of Anuradhapura. The Mahavamsa describes him as being "foremost among all his brothers in virtue and intelligence". At the time when he ascended to the throne of Anuradhapura, the majority of his subjects were Hindu as they had been since the arrival of the first Sinhala colonists on the island around 300 years previously.
The Mahavamsa mentions an early friendship with Ashoka. Chapter IX of the chronicle mentions that "the two monarchs, Devanampiyatissa and Dhammasoka, already had been friends a long time, though they had never seen each other", Dhammasoka being an alternate name for Ashoka. The chronicle also mentions Tissa sending gifts to the mighty emperor of the Maurya; in reply Ashoka sent not only gifts but also the news that he had converted to Buddhism, and a plea to Tissa to adopt the faith as well. The king does not appear to have done this at the time, instead adopting the name Devānaṃpiya "Beloved of the Gods" and having himself consecrated King of Lanka in a lavish celebration.