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Leisure >> World Heritage Cities >> Sigiriya World Heritage City Sigiriya
Location Sigiriya is located just 6 miles / 9.6 kilometres from Dambulla. History World renowned as the Lion's Rock, Sigiriya was a spectacular royal fortress for more than 18 years (477 - 495 AD). Its mesmerizing tale full of love, betrayal and legend never fails to enchant visitors of any age. King Kasyapa (477 - 495 AD) left Anuradhapura and influenced by the grandeur of the mythical home of Kuvera, the God of wealth, built a magnificent citadel on the Sigiriya rock. His half brother, Mugalan, challenged him 18 years later with an army. Thinking that he was alone in battle, Kasyapa raised his dagger and committed suicide. The world famous Sigiriya frescoes are in a sheltered pocket on the western face of the rock, and can be reached by a spiral stairway. Only 19 of the original 500 frescoes remain today. A passageway or corridor along the northern and western sides of the steep rock offers admission to the summit. A highly polished plaster wall ten feet in height protects this passageway. Even after 15 centuries of exposure to the natural elements, an individual can still see his or her reflection in it. It's therefore called the Mirror Wall. The Sigiri graffiti on its shiny surface bears testimony to the talent and creativity of our ancestors. A grand palace stood at the summit of the rock which is almost three acres in size. Its outer wall was built at the very brink of the rock face. Shimmering ponds, pavilions, islets and promenades adorn the Pleasure Garden of the western side of Sigiriya. A surface and underground drainage system and waterworks was found during archaeological excavations and restored to its former glory. The wall adjoining the moat surrounding the citadel is one of the most prominent characteristics. Attractions Palace, landscaped garden, museum, archaeological sites and frescoes. Directions Sigiriya is located near Dambulla. Many of the routes leading to Dambulla will lead travellers to Sigiriya. Getting There Travel by car or coach. Or take the train up to Habarana and then catch a bus to Dambulla and take another bus to Sigiriya. The most economical means of travel is by public transport.
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