Mysterious city concealed within colossal lion-like stone structure atop Sigiriya ancient fortress remains unsolved
In the heartland of Sri Lanka, the awe-inspiring Sigiriya rock fortress stands as a testament to an era long past. A colossal stone monolith 200 meters high, it looms dramatically above the plains, a citadel of stone and memory.
Known locally as Sīhāgiri, or "Lion Rock," this UNESCO World Heritage Site has captivated visitors for centuries. Strategically placed in the Matale District near Dambulla, the Sigiriya rock fortress is not just a triumph of architecture, but a carefully planned urban complex that harmoniously merges nature and human ingenuity.
Constructed during the 5th century CE by King Kashyapa, the fortress served numerous purposes—from a royal palace to a fortress, the legacy of the king's strategic foresight. The site's ingenious engineering marvels are manifested in an intricate hydraulic system, which, in part, supports the world's oldest landscaped gardens.
Step back in time and delve into the mythical past associated with this enigmatic monument. Long before King Kashyapa, Buddhist monks dwelled in the rock shelters near Sigiriya's base. Despite its origins as a royal palace, some scholars argue that it may have evolved into a large Buddhist monastery complex rather than a typical palace.
The summit is crowned by a mirror-smooth stone slab, where King Kashyapa probably held court. The surrounding walls bear the inscriptions of poetic verses, marking evidence of ancient pilgrims visiting Sigiriya. The entrance featured a monolithic lion-shaped gateway, which symbolized divine authority. However, only its paws remain today, hinting at the grandeur of the entrance in days gone by.
Rejected by time and engulfed by the wilderness, Sigiriya lay hidden until the 19th century. Rediscovered by the British colonial government, it has since regained a place not only in the country's tourism landscape but also in the annals of history. Some ancient tales attribute the construction of Sigiriya to legendary figures, seeding questions about its true origins and mythological significance.
The Sigiriya rock fortress endures as a symbol of Sri Lanka's rich history, distinctive art, and indomitable spirit. A blend of ancient wisdom, legend, and glorious architecture, it continues to inspire awe and allure visitors to the enigmatic shores of an ancient city suspended between myth and history.
Exploring the home-and-garden area within the Sigiriya rock fortress, one can find herself amidst the world's oldest landscaped gardens, a testament to sustainable living practices dating back to the 5th century CE. Amidst the history and lifestyle of ancient Sri Lanka, these gardens serve as a link between modern sustainable-living concepts and the wise use of resources as observed in the ancient texts.
