INFORMATION ABOUT SIGIRIYA (Travel Places)

                      INFORMATION ABOUT SIGIRIYA

 ''Sigiri" refers to the ancient city of Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, which is located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. It is renowned for the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are some key points about Sigiriya:

History: Sigiriya dates back to the 5th century AD when it was established by King Kasyapa as his royal capital. The king built his palace on top of the massive rock formation, transforming it into a fortified city.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress: The highlight of Sigiriya is the rock fortress itself, rising 200 meters above the surrounding landscape. It features ancient ruins, terraced gardens, frescoes, and a mirror wall with inscriptions.

Frescoes: The frescoes of Sigiriya, located in a sheltered pocket of the rock, depict celestial maidens known as "apsaras" and are some of the oldest surviving examples of ancient Sri Lankan art.

Water Gardens: Surrounding the base of Sigiriya Rock are the remains of an elaborate water garden complex, featuring ponds, canals, and fountains, designed with sophisticated hydraulic engineering.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Sigiriya was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 due to its outstanding cultural significance and archaeological importance.

Tourism: Sigiriya is a major tourist destination in Sri Lanka, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its historical and architectural wonders.

Access: The site is accessible by road from major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. Visitors can climb the rock to explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Overall, Sigiriya stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistic achievements of ancient Sri Lankan civilization and remains one of the most iconic landmarks in the country.