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Eighth
Wonder of the World: Sigiriya
Author:
Travel Guy
Sigiriya is a 6th century fortress located in the center of Sri
Lanka. Known as 'Lion Mountain,' the archeological site is perched
on 200 meter high rock. It was built by king Kashyapa in 5th Century
AD. It is one of the seven world heritage sites in Sri Lanka and is
one of its most popular tourist attractions. Sigiriya is being
currently excavated and restored by UNESCO under the Cultural
Triangle Project and according to the sources it is most likely to
be declared as the eighth wonder of the world.
Sigiriya depict the ancient architectural tradition of Sri Lanka. At
the height of its glory, it was a royal citadel for more than 18
years, from 477 to 495 A.D. It was the best preserved city center in
Asia in the prehistoric time, with a combination of buildings and
gardens with trees, pathways, water gardens, the fusion of
symmetrical and asymmetrical elements, use of varying levels and of
axial and radial planning. The remains of the regal palace along
with the royal swimming pool could be seen on the pinnacle, which is
about 300 meters above sea level covering about 3 hectares.
The Royal pleasure gardens at Sigiriya are supposed to be one of the
earliest extended landscaped gardens in Asia. There is a massive
picture gallery of big breasted topless women painted on the
depression on the rock face about 100 meters above ground level.
There are references of about 500 ladies of Kashyapa in these
paintings. Moreover, the spot has many beautiful palaces, conference
halls and swimming pools. The rock is surrounded by lush green
forests.
Every year large number of tourist visits Sigiriya to take in the
breathtaking sights of this historic destination. To provide
comfortable accommodation in Sigiriya, there are various cheap
budget hotels that are well furnished and provided with all the
modern facilities.
About the
Author:
Author is
a content developer and freelance travel writer.
Things To Do and See in
Sigiriya
Citadel of Sigiriya - Lion Rock, Sigiriya
The remnants of a fifth century royal rock fortress.
Attraction type: Ancient ruins
Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya
These beautifully decorated caves are considered sacred to
Sri
Lankan Buddhists and Hindus.
Attraction type: Religious site
Fresco Paintings at Sigiriya
Rock, Sigiriya
Attraction type: Geological formation; Landmark / point of interest;
Scenic / historic walking area; Art gallery
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