Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of granite approximately 180 m high. The area around Sigiriya was inhabited since prehistoric times, and the rock was selected by King Kashyapa for his new capital. He built his palace on top of the rock and decorated its sides with colorful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of the rock, he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure; Siṃhagiri, the Lion Rock. Sigiriya today is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning. The site features a complex city and fortress, including defensive structures, palaces, and gardens, which date back to King Kashyapa's reign. The rock summit and surrounding areas are home to several rock shelters and caves, which were occupied by Buddhist monks and ascetics from as early as the 3rd century BC