About Sigiriya Rock Fortress



Sigiriya Rock Fortress



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The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the Lion Rock, is an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Matale District of Sri Lanka. This ancient fortress and palace complex was constructed by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD and is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, scenic views, and cultural significance.

Overview and Elevation

Sigiriya stands at an elevation of about 200 meters (660 feet) above the surrounding plain, and the entire rock formation reaches a height of approximately 370 meters (1,214 feet) above sea level. The fortress is perched atop a massive rock column, which rises steeply from the surrounding landscape, giving it a commanding and almost mystical presence. The ascent to the summit includes about 1,200 steps that lead visitors through a series of unique features, from lush gardens to fresco-adorned walls and narrow staircases.

Main Attractions at Sigiriya

1. Arts & Mirror Wal
  • One of the most famous aspects of Sigiriya is its arts, which are vibrant and colorful. Painted on the rock face, these arts date back over 1,500 years and remain vivid and well preserved.
  • The Mirror Wall, initially polished to a reflective sheen, was used by ancient visitors to leave graffiti and poetry. Today, the wall bears hundreds of inscriptions dating from the 6th to 14th centuries

2. Lion-s Paw Entrance:
  • Near the summit, visitors encounter the Lionsingle_quotes Gate, flanked by two enormous lion paws carved out of stone. Originally, this entryway was designed to resemble a massive lion, with steps leading up between the lion-s paws to a narrow stairway that ascends to the peak. The remaining paws are a reminder of the once inspiring sculpture.

3. Gardens and Water Systems
  • Sigiriya is known for its elaborate gardens, some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. The complex comprises three main types of gardens: water gardens, terraced gardens, and boulder gardens. The water gardens feature sophisticated hydraulic systems that include fountains and ponds, believed to have been fed by underground water channels.

4. Summit and Palace Ruins
  • At the very top of Sigiriya, the ruins of King Kashyapasingle_quotes palace are spread across the flat summit. Remnants of royal pools, throne rooms, and other structures can still be seen, providing a glimpse into the grandeur that once characterized this fortress. From this vantage point, the view extends across the surrounding forested plains, making it a prime spot to appreciate the natural and historical significance of the site.

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