Sigiriya rock fortress
Sigiriya is a small town in the Cultural Triangle which is renowned throughout the world for its once-spectacular 5th century palace, which was built atop a towering rock, flanked by protective garrisons, a crocodile-filled moat and a juxtaposing, complex system of beautiful water gardens. King Kasyapa, who built Sigiriya Rock Fortress as a refuge after he killed his father to take the throne, devised a system to transfer water between the top and the foot of the rock, which is one of the most incredible feats of engineering in Sri Lanka’s ancient history – and in the world’s ancient history. The ruins of the palace can still be seen, including a giant lion’s paw which marked the entrance and the enormous baths which look out over the spectacular panoramic views, as well ancient cave paintings mid-way up the rock. Climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress
