Potentials of Developing Religious Historical Museum in Sri Lanka

Abstract

There are various types of museums in the world and in Sri Lanka, among which religious museums are one popular and common variety. This research paper describes the potentials of developing a museum related to Religious history of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, its importance as an educational centre, as a religious synchronization centre and as a tourist attraction will also be described through this research. In this study, field research and library survey methods were used collect the data. Sri Lanka has a rich history ranging from Prehistoric period to contemporary period and directly connected with various religious activities. There are multi ethnic and multi religious people in Sri Lankan society. Sri Lankan culture varied with Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and some other religions. Throughout these aspects can be recognized that Sri Lanka has diverse of religions. There are some museums and galleries which exhibits the historical background of single religious place. But Sri Lanka still lacks a single institution which displays the complete religious history of Sri Lanka. Through this study can suggest that, a completely new religious historical museum covering the all religions and all aspects which can provide tourist attraction, knowledge, practical experiences and religious harmony. Considering the results of this research could conclude that, it is significant to have one place where the complete religious history can be experienced and reviewed through the religious harmonization of Sri Lanka.