By Sachintha Weerapana, Jadetimes News
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya stands as one of the country's most remarkable and awe-inspiring historical monuments. Known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," this ancient fortress is a testament to ingenious urban planning and a symbol of the island's rich cultural heritage. With its fascinating history, intricate water technologies, and breathtaking views, Sigiriya offers a captivating journey through time. Here are ten incredible aspects of Sigiriya Rock that make it a must visit destination.
The Regal Legacy of King Kasyapa
Sigiriya Lion Rock was built by King Kasyapa, who ruled from 477 to 495 AD. He chose this site to protect himself from potential attacks by his brother Moggallana. The result was a breathtaking royal palace that stands as a testament to his reign.
The Towering Ascent
Imagine climbing 1,200 steps to reach the top of a rock that rises 200 meters above the plains. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey, taking between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. The view from the top is simply stunning.
A Tale of Intrigue and Betrayal
King Kasyapa's life was full of drama. Born to a non royal mother, he rebelled against his father, King Dhatusena, took the throne, and imprisoned his father. He later had him killed. This dark history adds a layer of mystery to the site.
From Monastery to Royal Residence
Before becoming Kasyapa's fortress, Sigiriya was a Buddhist monastery. After Kasyapa's death, it went back to being a monastery until it was abandoned in the 14th century. This dual history adds to Sigiriya's cultural and spiritual richness.
The Iconic Lion's Gate
Halfway up the rock, Kasyapa built a huge gateway in the form of a lion. Visitors would enter through the lion's mouth, symbolizing power and majesty. This is how Sigiriya got its name, which means "Lion Rock."
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sigiriya is recognized for its outstanding example of ancient urban planning and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Its layout and preservation make it an archaeological treasure.
The Enigmatic Mirror Wall
Most of the graffiti on Sigiriya's Mirror Wall talk about the beautiful paintings of semi nude women from the Sigiriya Frescoes, which once covered most of the western surface of the rock. This graffiti confirms that King Kasyapa, lived here. The texts suggest that the women in the frescoes were the ladies of the king's royal court, possibly his harem. These writings offer a fascinating glimpse into Sigiriya's history and how the language in Sri Lanka evolved over 800 years. The graffiti range from expressions of awe and love to curses, diary entries, and simple statements like "I was here," showing a high level of literacy and a love for art and poetry.
Written in Sinhala, Sanskrit, and Tamil, these early scribblers left priceless insights into the past. Of the 685 individuals identified so far, twelve were women. Over half identified themselves by name, noted their social rank, and some even mentioned their hometowns, like Weligama and Ritigala. Most visitors seemed to be elites royalty, officials, professionals, and clergy. There were also soldiers, archers, and metalworkers. Over 1,000 unique words have been identified from these inscriptions, showcasing a diverse and educated society.
Sigiriya's Ancient Water Wonders: 1500 Years of Engineering Mastery
Entering Sigiriya's city complex from the west, you'll discover an impressive water park complex. This area includes pavilions, ponds, tanks, waterways, and moats, all showcasing advanced water management technology from 1,500 years ago. The main water park features an island with a small pavilion, surrounded by water, and connected by a waterway.
Designed 500 years before the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the Mughal Gardens in India, Sigiriya's water park is a marvel of ancient engineering. It has four L-shaped ponds with varying water levels, controlled by tunnels of different heights. The southwestern pond includes a bathing area with steps leading down to it. The water garden is split into two parts: the western section has two ponds, one deeper and one longer, with gravel paved bottoms.
Unique water lilies in these ponds, powered by gravity and water pressure, create beautiful water displays, especially during the rainy season from November to January. The water park also features four islands with moats and stone steps, believed to have supported pavilions on their flat boulders. This ancient water management system highlights the ingenuity and advanced technological skills of the time.
Sigiriya's extensive water gardens, moats, and terraced gardens showcase advanced engineering. The system of canals, lakes, dams, bridges, fountains, and underground water pumps still works today, a testament to the ingenuity of its builders.
Rediscovery in the 19th Century
Sigiriya was rediscovered in 1831 by British Army Major Jonathan Forbes while riding through Sri Lanka. This led to archaeological research that uncovered the site's rich history and architectural brilliance.
Tips for Visiting Sigiriya
Best Time to Visit: The dry zone climate can be extreme from April to August. Early morning or late afternoon climbs are best to avoid the heat and enjoy smaller crowds. Watching the sunset from the top is a breathtaking experience.
What to Wear: There is no strict dress code, but it’s best to respect cultural norms. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hiking, and bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
Getting There: Sigiriya is about a 3-4 hour drive from Colombo. Hiring a private car is the most convenient way to reach the site due to limited public transport options.
Sigiriya is more than just a tourist spot; it's a journey into the heart of Sri Lanka's ancient history, showcasing the ingenuity, artistry, and cultural richness of a bygone era. Whether you're fascinated by its royal legacy, architectural wonders, or hydraulic technologies, Sigiriya promises an unforgettable experience that captivates the soul.