Sigiriya

    Sigiriya, often known as "Lion Rock," is one of the most well-known sites in Sri Lanka. Perched atop a gigantic 200-meter-high rock column, this historic stronghold and palace complex is situated in the middle of Matale District, close to the town of Dambulla. Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit location for tourists because of its significance in archaeology, architecture, and the arts. The history of Sigiriya begins in the 5th century AD, with King Kashyapa's rule (477–495 AD). Based on historical accounts, Kashyapa ascended to the throne from his father, King Dhatusena, and constructed Sigiriya as his royal home. In addition to serving as a palace, the rock castle was built as a fortified stronghold to keep the king safe from his foes, especially from his half-brother Moggallana, the legitimate successor to the throne.

A sequence of exquisitely maintained terraces, gardens, and water features that exhibit cutting-edge engineering and landscape architecture are encountered by tourists climbing to the peak of Sigiriya. There are large, symmetrically separated gardens with intricate irrigation systems on the lower levels. Ascending farther, tourists come upon the renowned "Mirror Wall," which was formerly polished to reflect the king's visage but is now covered in antiquated inscriptions and graffiti.