SIGIRIYA
Sigiriya is one of the most valuable historical monuments of Sri Lanka.
This ancient palace and fortress complex, referred to by locals as the Eighth Wonder of the World, has important architectural significance and draws thousands of visitors each year. It is currently Sri Lanka's most-visited tourist destination.
Palace is located in the heart of the island, between the towns of Dambulla and Habarane, 370 meters above sea level on a massive rocky plateau.
The Sigiriya rock plateau is 200 meters higher than the surrounding jungles, formed from the magma of an extinct volcano.
His vision amazes tourists with the unusual harmony that exists between nature and human imagination.
The fortification complex contains remains of a ruined castle, surrounded by a large network of fortifications, extensive parks, ponds, canals, alleys, and fountains.
For several thousand years Sigiriya 's neighboring lands were limited.
The rugged plateau of Sigiriya served as a monastery since 3rd century BC. The King Kasyapa planned to establish a royal residence here in the second half of the 5th century.
After his death Sigiriya was again turned into a Buddhist monastery until it was abandoned in the 14th century.
It was modeled in the shape of a massive stone lion, whose feet have survived to this day but which killed the upper parts of the body.
The main entrance lies on the north side of the rock. |
|
|
The palace was called Sigiriya thanks to this Lion. The term Sigiriya has its roots in the word Sihagri, i.e. Lion Rock.
|