Sigiriya - Rock Fortress

Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of granite approximately 180m.
This hill and was selected by King Kashyapa (AD 477-495) for his new capital. He built his palace on top of this rock and decorated its sides with colourful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure; Siṃhagiri, the Lion Rock.
The capital and the royal palace were abandoned after the king's death. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. Sigiriya today is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. It is one of the best preserved examples of ancient urban planning.