Sigiriya
Ancient rock fortress with stunning frescoes and gardens.
Sigiriya or Sinhagiri (Lion Rock) is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock around 180 metres (590 ft) high.
The Lion Rock King Kashyapa (477 – 495 CE) selected this site for his new capital. He built his palace on the top of this rock and decorated its sides with colourful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure — Sīhāgiri, the Lion Rock.
The Frescoes The "Sigiriya Ladies" are ancient paintings that have survived for centuries in a sheltered pocket of the rock. They are similar in style to the paintings of the Ajanta Caves in India but have a unique Sri Lankan character.
The Water Gardens The base of the rock is surrounded by an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs, and other structures. The water gardens are a masterpiece of ancient hydraulic engineering, functioning even today during the rainy season.