Sigiriya

Sigiriya also known as "Lion Rock" is an ancient rock citadel 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 high. According to the Culavamsa, this site was assorted by King Kasyapa (477 – 495 CE) also known as "Sigiri Kashyapa", 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 Grave lion. The capital and the royal palace was abandoned after the king's death. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century.

UNESCO listed the Sigirya as World Heritage Site. It is one of the best preserved examples of ancient urban planning.

This is the view of Sigiriya when you enter to the site (2010-10-22)

In 477 CE. Kashyapa, a non-royal consort son of King Dathusena, seized the throne from King, following a coup assisted by King’s nephew and army commander Migara. the . The rightful claimant, Moggallana, fearing for his life, escape to South India. Fearing of an attack by Moggallana, Kashyapa change the capital and his residence from the traditional capital of Anuradhapura to Sigiriya for more safety and security. During his reign (477 to 495 CE), Sigiriya was developed into a city complex and castle. Most of the charming modification on the rock climax and around it. such as protective structures, palaces, and gardens.

The Culavamsa point out Kashyapa as the son of King Dhatusena. He murdered his father and then plunder the throne which rightfully belonged to his brother Moggallana, which is King Dhatusena's son by the true queen. Moggallana get away to India to escape being killing by Kashyapa. Then he gather an army in India with the aim of returning and take back the throne of Sri Lanka, which he deserve to be rightfully. Awaiting the necessarily return of Moggallana, Kashyapa built his palace on the summit of Sigiriya as a fortress and pleasure palace. In 495 CE as expected Moggallana finally returned and called for a war, and defeated Kashyapa . During the war Kashyapa's armies derelict him and he committed suicide. Moggallana changed the Kingdom back to Anuradapura, converting Sigiriya into a Buddhist hermitage complex. Buddhist hermitage settlements were established during the 3rd century BCE

This is the current situation of ancient Sigiriya drawings. (2010-10-22)

• Major Jonathan Forbes of the British army encountered the "bush covered summit of Sigiriya" In 1831. 
• in the 1890's Archaeological work began at Sigiriya. 
• first archaeologist to conduct extensive research on Sigiriya was H.C.P. Bell. 
• the Government of Sri Lanka launched The Cultural Triangle project focused on Sigiriya in 1982 
• Archaeological work began on the entire city under this project 
• There was a sculpted lion's head above the legs and paws flanking the entrance. 

by Sam
24-07-2017.