Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and it is popular for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sinhala civilization. The sacred city holds large number of places to worship such as Buddhist temples and Buddha statues, although there are also few Hindu temples. Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweliseya, Jetavanaramaya, Thuparamaya, Abhayagiri, Lovamahapaya, Mihintale and Kadireshan kovil are popular ancient shrines of worship built by early kings. Wilpattu National Park that has the enviable distinction of being the oldest and the largest national park in the country in situated in the close proximity to Anuradhapura.