The spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions which were built by King Kassapa 1 (477-95). According to chronicle Mahawansa, he transformed the natural rock in to a heavenly Palace with water gardens, moats, walls and frescoes. The rock summit was replaced with a grandeur palace complex, which was approached through a brick – built tunnel entered through a gaping mouth of a lion built on the plateau. It is widely believed that the 150 m high solid rock became the capital fortress of King Kassapa 1 who feared vengeance of his brother over the assassination of their father, King Dhatusena.
Sigiriya is a unique witness to the civilization of Ceylon during the latter part of the Anuradhapura period. The frescoes of Sigiriya on the western face of the rock have brought universal acclaim to the site over many centuries. ‘The Maidens of the Clouds’ or ladies of king’s court, are comparable to the most beautiful creations of Ajanta in India.
At the summit of the rock is the fortified palaces with its ruined buildings, its cisterns cut into the rock that still retain water. At the foot of the rock are the two quarters of the lower city are examples of the marvelous town planning designed according to the plan duplicating the layout on either side. Despite its age, the splendor of these creations is still full of fascinating insights of the ingenuity and skills of its builders. Sigiriya is one of the best preserved sites in Sri Lanka where the layout of the buildings and gardens is still clearly evident.
The reign of King Kassapa was ended in 495 when he committed suicide during the losing battle with his brother Moggallana who handed over the site of Sigiriya to the Buddhist monks. The site of the ‘Lion Mountain’ was visited from the 6th century AD, by passionate admirers. The poems inscribed on the rock by certain of these admirers, and known as the ‘Sigiri graffiti,’ are among the most ancient texts in the Sinhalese language. The one hour climb is a worthwhile journey with beautiful scenery atop the mountain.
