SIGIRIYA

 

SIGIRIYA



Sigiriya is one of the most valuable historical monuments of Sri Lanka.  this ancient palace and fortress complex has significant archaeological importance

 The palace is located in the heart of the island between the towns of Dambulla and Habarane on a massive rocky plateau 370 meters above the sea level.

Sigiriya rock plateau, formed from magma of an extinct volcano, is 200 meters higher than the surrounding jungles. The fortress complex includes remnants of a ruined palace, surrounded by an extensive network of fortifications, vast gardens, ponds, canals, alleys and fountains.

The surrounding territories of Sigiriya were inhibited for several thousand years. Since 3th century BC the rocky plateau of Sigiriya served as a monastery.

In 477 AD, Kashyapa I, the king’s son by a non-royal consort, seized the throne from King Dhatusena, following a coup assisted by Migara, the King’s nephew and army commander. The rightful heir, Moggallana, fearing for his life, fled to South India. Afraid of an attack by Moggallana, Kashyapa moved the capital and his residence from the traditional capital of Anuradhapura to the more secure Sigiriya. During King Kashyapa’s reign (477 to 495 AD), Sigiriya was developed into a complex city and fortress.Most of the elaborate constructions on the rock summit and around it, including defensive structures, palaces, and gardens, date from this period.

 After his death Sigiriya again became a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century, after w it was abandoned.

The main entrance is located in the northern side of the rock. It was designed in the form of a huge stone lion, whose feet have survived up to today.



Thanks to this lion the palace was named Sigiriya. The term Sigiriya originates from the word Sihagri, L.E. Lion Rock.

The western wall of Sigiriya was almost entirely covered by frescoes, created during the reign of Kasyapa. Eighteen frescoes have survived to this day.



The frescoes are depicting nude females and are considered to be either the portraits of Kasyapa’s wives and concubines or priestess performing religious rituals. Despite the unknown identity of the females depicted in the frescoes, these unique ancient paintings are celebrating female beauty and have incredible historical significance.

One of the most striking features of Sigiriya is its Mirror wall. In the old days it was polished so thoroughly that the king could see his reflection in it.

Location: Jaffna, Sri Lanka

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