Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the ingenuity and grandeur of Ancient Sri Lankan engineering and architecture. Rising majestically from the central plains of the island, the massive rock monolith of Sigiriya is adorned with the remnants of a remarkable fortress and palace complex, dating back to the 5th century AD. Its unique blend of natural and man-made wonders has captivated visitors for centuries, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Summer Palace at Sigiriya
While many visitors assume King Kashyapa resided in the palace atop Sigiriya rock, realistically inhabiting such a lofty location would have been immensely challenging for royalty or commoners alike. The dry zone climate where Sigiriya stands brings intense heat during the dry season as well as heavy monsoon rains, making the exposed rocky summit inhospitable at times.
To combat this, Kashyapa had two subsidiary palaces constructed within the greater Sigiriya garden complex near the main entrance. It’s believed the king likely spent most of his time in these more hospitable palaces surrounded by engineered gardens and ponds.
The gardens themselves were an ingenious feat, perfectly tailored to thrive in the dry zone environment. Beyond just aesthetic appeal, features like the ponds helped cool breezes for the palace while supporting fragrant aquatic plants like lotus. The varied greens and flowering plants transformed the gardens into an open-air living painting.
Rather than an imposing sealed fortress, Sigiriya’s summer palaces reflected an architectural philosophy prioritizing environmental integration and natural elements over sheer scale. This stood in contrast to the grand stone palaces of other historical rulers, revealing Sri Lankan kings’ preference for dwellings harmoniously intertwined with the landscape’s unique ecology.
Sigiriya Murals
The Sigiriya Murals, often referred to as the “Heavenly Maidens” or “Apsaras,” are a breathtaking collection of frescoes that adorn the western face of the rock fortress. These vibrant paintings, executed with remarkable skill and artistry, depict beautiful women adorned with intricate jewelry and garments, their expressions and poses exuding grace and elegance. The murals are a captivating representation of the artistic and cultural achievements of the Anuradhapura era, showcasing the mastery of ancient Sri Lankan artists in capturing the human form and depicting celestial beings.
Excavation and study of the Sigiriya murals began in 1895, led by H.C.P. Bell, the then-Commissioner of Archaeology. The existence of the paintings was recorded years earlier by William Gregory, the former Governor of Ceylon, who spotted them through a telescope from afar. In 1899, the renowned engineer Murray began creating copies of the Sigiriya paintings, followed by Muhandiram Perera, whose replicas can still be seen at the Colombo National Museum today. The Commissioner also uncovered graffiti on the Mirror Wall during the excavations, along with several hymns composed in response to the 500 paintings adorning Sigiriya’s walls at that time.
The cave housing the murals extends approximately 60 feet deep, with the paintings rising 44 feet above the Mirror Wall. The rugged cave wall was smoothed with a special painting plaster made from a mixture of Divul Latu, Spider Clay, Bee Honey, Lime, and other ingredients, according to archaeologist Ananda Kumaraswami. Herbal juices like Gokatu Kiri and Ranawara were used to create the vibrant dyes, while Watakeiya Fibers were employed to make the drawing brushes. The Sigiriya murals were painted using both wet and dry plaster techniques, showcasing the advanced artistic skills of the ancient Sri Lankan artists.
The exact subject matter depicted in the Sigiriya murals remains a topic of debate, with many notable scholars and experts offering diverse interpretations over the years. Regardless of their precise meaning, these exquisite frescoes stand as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic mastery of ancient Sri Lanka.
The Mural Restoration Project Led by Luciano Maranzi
In the 1980s, the Sigiriya murals underwent a significant restoration project spearheaded by the renowned Italian mural artist Luciano Maranzi. This ambitious undertaking aimed to preserve and revitalize the fading frescoes, ensuring that their beauty and historical significance would be safeguarded for future generations.
Maranzi, recognized as one of the world’s most prominent mural artists, brought his expertise and deep understanding of ancient painting techniques to the project. With meticulous care and attention to detail, he and his team studied the original materials and methods used by the ancient artists, enabling them to carefully clean and stabilize the deteriorating murals.
Through a painstaking process of careful analysis and reconstruction, Maranzi and his team were able to recreate missing sections of the frescoes, seamlessly blending the restored portions with the original artwork. Their efforts were guided by a deep respect for the cultural heritage represented by the Sigiriya murals, ensuring that the restoration process remained faithful to the original artistic intent and aesthetic.
Maranzi’s contribution to the preservation of Sigiriya’s cultural heritage is widely celebrated and recognized globally. His work has not only revived the stunning beauty of the Sigiriya murals but has also ensured that these priceless works of art will continue to inspire and captivate visitors for generations to come.
History of Sigiriya
Sigiriya’s history spans centuries, with its origins dating back to the 3rd century BC when it served as a rock-sheltered Buddhist monastery. However, it was in the late 5th century AD that Sigiriya underwent a remarkable transformation under the reign of King Kasyapa.
After usurping the throne from his father, King Kasyapa sought to construct an impregnable fortress atop the massive rock monolith, creating a unique and formidable stronghold. The construction of the fortress and palace complex was a remarkable feat of engineering and architectural prowess, involving the labor of thousands of workers and artisans.
Legends
King Sri Lankeshwara Maha Ravana's Link to Sigiriya Rock Fortress
According to local legends, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is believed to have been the fortress of the mythical King Sri Lankeshwara Maha Ravana, a powerful monarch from the epic Ramayana. This connection adds an air of mystique and grandeur to the site, intertwining the historical and mythological aspects of Sigiriya’s rich cultural heritage.
The legend speaks of Ravana, the formidable king of Lanka, who was renowned for his strength and wisdom. It is said that he chose the imposing rock of Sigiriya as the site for his fortress, recognizing its strategic location and natural defenses. This legendary association has further enriched the allure of Sigiriya, captivating the imagination of visitors and locals alike.
How to Get to Sigiriya
Sigiriya is located in the Matale District of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, approximately 180 kilometers from Colombo. Visitors can easily reach Sigiriya by taking the Colombo-Habarana Highway or the Colombo-Dambulla Highway, followed by a short drive through picturesque rural landscapes. Several accommodation options are available in the nearby towns of Dambulla and Habarana, making it convenient to explore Sigiriya and other nearby attractions.
Sigiriya Opening Times
Sigiriya is open to visitors daily, with the following opening hours:
- Morning session: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Evening session: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM (for viewing the sunset from the rock fortress)
It’s recommended to visit during the morning hours to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Sigiriya Entrance Fee
The entrance fee for Sigiriya varies based on visitor category:
- Foreign visitors: $30 USD
- SAARC nationals: $15 USD
- Sri Lankan citizens and residents: Rs. 50 (approx. $0.25 USD)
These fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the latest rates before your visit.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone seeking to experience one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, Sigiriya promises an unforgettable journey through time, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring rock fortress to the stunning murals and ancient gardens, Sigiriya offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this island nation.
After exploring the wonders of Sigiriya, consider staying at the Sigiriya Jungles Hotel, a leading accommodation option conveniently located in the heart of Sigiriya. This well-appointed hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The post Sigiriya Uncovered: Delving into the History, Art, and Legends of an Iconic Wonder appeared first on Sri Lanka Authentic Holidays.
