Sri Lanka — known as Taprobane to the Greeks, Serendib to the Arabs, and Lanka in ancient Sanskrit texts — occupied a uniquely strategic position in the Indian Ocean trade network. Archaeological evidence from Mantai, Godavaya, and Anuradhapura reveals a sophisticated maritime culture that connected Rome, Persia, India, and Southeast Asia.
Recent underwater archaeological surveys have uncovered new evidence of ancient port infrastructure along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, suggesting trade volumes far larger than previously estimated. These findings challenge conventional narratives about the island’s role in pre-colonial global commerce.
This research contributes to Sannasa’s ongoing study of how historical maritime networks inform contemporary Indian Ocean security and economic strategy.
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