Sigiriya, also known as the Lion’s Rock, rises majestically in the central province of the beautiful island country of Sri Lanka.
This incredible structure reaches 200 meters above the ground and the lush jungle that is now home to Sri Lanka’s wonder—or the Sinhalese ancient city remaining as a UNESCO World Heritage site. That is why Sigiriya, which was constructed in the 5th century by King Kashyapa as his royal palace and a fortress, amazes with the unity of nature and architectural masterpieces.
Visitors climbing the mountain have access to the terraces, water gardens as well as painting of various celestial maidens. However, one of the most famous landmarks of Sigiriya is Lion’s Gate, which consist of huge paws of the lion that has been carved on the rock to symbolize the path to the upper force. As would be expected, the path up the summit is rather rigorous, but the views of the canopy and other nearby mountains is really rewarding.
On the summit, a destroyed housing area, arches, other chambers, water tanks, and fortifications of Kashyapa’s palace are seen. As for me, Sigiriya is not only the architectural masterpiece but also it has very historical background of the kingdom and the hidden political struggles in ancient Sri Lanka.
Visiting Sigiriya means travelling back in time and seeing royal residence, military tacticsand religious imagery within one of the most stunning geographic backdrops of the world
Mark