The Eighth Wonder Of The World

One of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is renowned for its 5th century pre-Christian frescoes. It has also been declared by UNESCO as the 8th Wonder of the World.
Situated in Matale district, in the middle of Sri Lanka’s famous cultural Triangle, Sigiriya (Lion’s rock, in Sinhalese සීගිරිය) is an ancient rock fortress and palace ruin surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens and reservoirs. The fortress’ name is echoed in the staircases that emerge from a lion’s mouth constructed in brick and plaster which offer access to the site. Sigiriya is also renowned for its 5th century pre-christian frescoes, which are reminiscent of the paintings of the Ajanta Caves in India. One of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka, it has also been declared by UNESCO as the 8th Wonder of the World.

Sigiriya stood as spectator to the civilization of Ceylon at the time of the reign of King Kashyapa I (AD 477-495) who, according to the chronicles of Mahavamsa, a historical poem written in the Pali language about the kings of Sri Lanka, was responsible for its construction. Although the rock itself had been inhabited since the third century, the fame of the Lion Mountain is due to the story of Kashyapa, who established his capital here. The king, son of Dhatusena, secured his power by both orchestrating the assassination of his own father, and expelling his brother. Following the king’s death, Sigiriya was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century.

The site’s majestic frescoes inspired an aesthetic language that would continue to be practiced for hundreds of years. Poems inscribed on the side of the rock by 6th century admirers visiting Sigiriya are some of the oldest examples of the written Sinhalese language. These texts, as well as the marvelous frescoes, demonstrate the sizable influence that this abandoned civilization had on subsequent literature and art.

The Cultural Triangle Project, launched by the Government of Sri Lanka, focused its attention on Sigiriya in 1982. Archaeological work began on the entire city for the first time under this project. There was a sculpted lion’s head above the legs and paws flanking the entrance, but the head broke down many years ago.

The whole face of the hill appears to have been a gigantic picture gallery.The paintings would have covered most of the western face of the rock, There are references in the graffiti to 500 ladies in these paintings. However, many more are lost forever, having been wiped out when the Palace once more became a monastery, so that the paintings would not disturb meditation.

To visit this stunning site, Olanka Travels can arrange a breathtaking tour.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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