Sigiriya is a World Cultural Heritage Site named by the UNESCO and it has an interesting story behind it. Visit the Lion Rock and witness the greatness of Sri Lankan architecture.
History
According to legend, Kasyapa murdered his father Dhatusena by walling him up whilst he still drew breath. In order to evade a similar destiny, Mogallana fled to India yet vowed vengeance for the death of his father and the loss of the throne which was his by right. After Kasyapa was crowned king, he quickly made the decision to make Sigiriya his new capital, rather than the traditional capital city of Anuradhapura
Frescoes
One of Sigiriya’s most famed attractions is the renowned frescoes that may be seen at the site. It is believed that the existing frescoes are only a few remnants of a vast gallery of paintings that may have covered the greater part of the Sigiriya rock’s western side.
Mirror Wall
Another significant feature at the Sigiriya complex is the famed Mirror Wall. As its name indicates this wall was at one time polished so meticulously that the king was able to see his reflection on the wall as he passed by. Today you will see that this wall is partly covered with the famous Sigiriya graffiti; the writings of the various visitors who came to view Sigiriya over the course of centuries.
Worth a visit
Naturally, a tour of Sigiriya would not be complete without climbing the stairway to the summit of the rock where you will have the opportunity to view the ruins of the royal palace. If you are planning to visit this part of the country, base yourself at one of the luxury hotels in Sigiriya the likes of Water Garden Sigiriya and witness the ruins of these majestic cities.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
