According to the Culavamsa, an ancient Sri Lankan chronicle written by the monarchs of Sri Lanka from the 4th century to 1815, Sigiriya was a forest area that after storms and landslides became a hill.
Also called Lion Rock, the site was selected by King Kashyapa (477 – 495 AD) for his new capital and to provide a secure location for himself to rule. After being overthrown, Sigiriya became home to a Buddhist Monastery that remained until the 14th century.
The palace was built on top of a high rock, at an elevation of 349mt, which dominates the area and it was decorated with colorful frescoes. Many of them can still be admired by visiting the remains.
![Sigiriya was decorated with colorful frescoes](https://beta.revntravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Sigiriya-fresco-1024x1024.jpg)
When entering the archeological site, you will be met by the remnants of ancient gardens, some of which are still well-preserved. The Water Gardens, are naturally filled with water during heavy rainfall, and the fountains are impressively still active after over 1500 years.
![Sigiriya gardens](https://beta.revntravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/sigiriya-gardens-1024x1024.jpg)
The last entrance before the final stairs to reach the palace was guarded by a gatehouse built in the form of a crouching “sphinx-like” lion, from which the name Sigiriya originated (literally translated “The Lion Rock”). While most of it collapsed long ago, the paws are still intact.
![The lion gateway originated the name Sigiriya which literally translates as “The Lion Rock”](https://beta.revntravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/the-lion-gateway-1024x1024.jpg)
The views from the top of Sigiriya are extraordinary and give visitors a 360-degree view of Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes and the magnificent gardens below.
Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited historical sites in Sri Lanka, just three hours drive away from Colombo.