The tropical island of Sri Lanka contains thousands of years’ worth of history, even boasting incredibly advanced civilizations that have existed roughly two thousand years ago. One of the most compelling instances of this is the massive Sigiriya Fortress, whose construction and architecture baffles archaeologists and architects alike to this very day. This UNESCO Heritage site has transformed the area into a tourist destination with many hotels in Sigiriya to be found such as Sigiriya Jungles.
The fortress was built under the behest of King Kasyapa who sought out a site to build his vision of a new capital city. King Kasyapa garnered significant unpopularity after rising to power through the murder of his father and the banishment of his brother. He chose Sigiriya Rock as the location due to the defensive advantages the massive natural formation would provide if he built his city on top of it.
The land surrounding the rock also displays evidence that an incredible civilization once thrived in the area. The ruins of a massive water garden can be found, containing lavish man-made pools capable of holding large groups of people. There are three such gardens situated at various levels leading up to the massive fortress.
Typical of a fortress there are large moats encircling the citadel. There is also evidence of a complex transportation system that was present to take the King to the top. The Mirror Wall is one of the most significant attributes of the Sigiriya Fortress, and although it is not the case anymore, the wall was initially built so the King could observe his reflection as he walked alongside it.
The ladies of King Kasyapa’s court were beloved by him, and he commissioned the stunning Sigiriya Frescoes to immortalize them. They are widely regarded as the biggest picture gallery in existence and have become iconic of Sri Lanka.
Be sure to visit this legendary locale if you find yourself on the island.
| Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+ |
