“Discover the ancient fortress of Sigiriya – a true masterpiece of engineering and the 8th wonder of the world by UNESCO!”
Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is an ancient fortress and palace located in the Matale District of Sri Lanka. The site, which dates back to the 5th century AD, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the country’s most important historical and cultural landmarks.
The fortress is situated on a massive granite rock that rises 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. The rock is shaped like a lion, and it is said that the fortress was built on the site because of its resemblance to the animal. The fortress was originally built by King Kasyapa, who ruled Sri Lanka from 477-495 AD.
The fortress includes a series of well-preserved ruins, including a palace, gardens, and a series of frescoes. The palace, which was built at the top of the rock, is considered one of the most impressive examples of ancient urban planning. The palace was surrounded by an outer wall, which protected the inner palace and the gardens.
“Sigiriya is ranked as the 8th wonder of the world by UNESCO“
The gardens of Sigiriya are considered one of the oldest surviving examples of ancient landscaped gardens. The gardens were built on a series of terraces that were cut into the rock. They were designed to be a place of relaxation and contemplation, with a variety of plants and trees, including frangipani and lotus flowers.
One of the most famous features of Sigiriya is the series of frescoes that adorn the rock face. The frescoes, which are believed to date back to the 5th century AD, depict a variety of women, known as “Sigiriya damsels”. The frescoes are considered some of the most important examples of ancient art in Sri Lanka and are a major draw for visitors to the site.
Sigiriya is considered a must-see for any visitor to Sri Lanka, with its rich history, impressive architecture, and beautiful gardens. The site is open to visitors year-round and is easily accessible from the nearby town of Dambulla.