Lion’s paws and stairs to Sigiriya rock fortress, Sri Lanka

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Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. The name refers to a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 metres (660 ft) high. According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle the Culavamsa, this site was selected by King Kasyapa (477 – 495 AD) 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 capital and the royal palace was abandoned after the king’s death. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century.

Sigiriya today is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site.

Submitted: 02/04/2020
Accepted: 08/04/2020

Published:
– Reach Publishing (United Kingdom (Great Britain)) 17-Jul-2020
– Reach Publishing (United Kingdom (Great Britain)) 26-Feb-2021
– Asharq News Services Ltd (United Arab Emirates) 15-Jun-2021
– Reach Publishing (United Kingdom (Great Britain)) 16-Jun-2021