Sigiriya Rock is a massive granite monolith that towers over the surrounding jungle in Sri Lanka. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and for good reason. The rock is home to a fascinating array of ruins, including a palace, gardens, and a series of frescoes.
The History of Sigiriya
Sigiriya was built by King Kashyapa I in the 5th century AD. Kashyapa was a usurper who had killed his father, King Dhatusena, to take the throne. He wanted to build a fortress that would be impregnable, and he chose Sigiriya for its strategic location. The rock is surrounded by jungle and is very difficult to climb. Kashyapa also built a moat and a series of fortifications around the rock.
The palace on top of Sigiriya was a luxurious complex. It had gardens, pools, and fountains. There were also murals of beautiful women, known as the "apsaras." Kashyapa lived in the palace for 18 years, but he was eventually defeated by his half-brother, King Moggallana I.
The Ruins of Sigiriya
The ruins of Sigiriya are still impressive today. The most notable feature is the Lion's Paw Terrace. This was the entrance to the palace, and it was once guarded by a giant lion statue. The statue has been destroyed, but the paws remain.
Other ruins on Sigiriya include the Mirror Wall, the Water Gardens, and the Cave Temples. The Mirror Wall is a polished slab of rock that was once used by the women of the palace to admire their reflection. The Water Gardens are a series of ponds and fountains that were used for irrigation and recreation. The Cave Temples were used for religious purposes.
Visiting Sigiriya
