Rising majestically 650 feet (200m) above the Sri Lankan landscape, Sigiriya is an ancient city built on a megalithic rock that has puzzled visitors for centuries. This remote wonder, located in the Matale District, is designated a cultural World Heritage Site and continues to intrigue experts who seek to unravel its mysteries. From the fortress and palace to the pleasure garden, Sigiriya's history is steeped in intrigue, making it a fascinating site for research, study, and speculation.
5,000 Years of History
Archaeological evidence indicates that the area surrounding Sigiriya has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with rock shelters dating back almost 5000 years to the Mesolithic period. Moreover, many rock shelters and caves in the vicinity were used by Buddhist monks and ascetics from as early as the 3rd century BC. Despite this rich history, Sigiriya is perhaps best known for its transformation into a palace, fortress, and pleasure garden by King Kashyapa in the 5th century.
The Rise and Fall of King Kashyapa
King Kashyapa was the cunning son of Dhatusena. Kashyapa's thirst for power drove him to engineer the assassination of his own father and overthrow his rightful heir, Moggallana. Fearing retribution from his vengeful brother, Kashyapa retreated to the towering rock of Sigiriya, where he built a seemingly impenetrable palace fortress. But his reign was short-lived, as Moggallana's forces overtook the fortress in a battle that saw Kashyapa take his own life. After his demise, the site was returned to the peaceful hands of Buddhist monks and became a monastery for centuries to come. READ MORE...
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