ANCIENT CEYLON An Account of the Aborigines and of Part of the Early Civilisation

Ancient Ceylon is a seminal ethnographic and archaeological study written by Henry Parker, a former official of the Ceylon Irrigation Department. Originally published in the early 20th century, this meticulously researched volume delves into the prehistoric and early historic phases of Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), offering a detailed account of its aboriginal inhabitants, religious practices, ancient inscriptions, village customs, and irrigation systems. Drawing from local chronicles, folklore, architecture, and inscriptions, Parker traces the evolution of early Sinhalese civilization while documenting the customs and beliefs of the Veddas and other tribal groups. This modern reprint from Salmon Books aims to preserve and revive a rare scholarly treasure that remains invaluable for historians, anthropologists, and enthusiasts of South Asian culture and history.