Sigiriya Rock Fortress is an ancient rock fortress located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is also known as the “Lion Rock” due to the massive lion statue that once stood at the entrance of the fortress.
The fortress was built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa I, who seized the throne from his father and fled to Sigiriya to avoid reprisals. He built the fortress on top of a massive rock outcropping that rises 660 feet (200 meters) above the surrounding landscape.
The fortress is renowned for its complex water management system, which included elaborate fountains, ponds, and reservoirs. The Sigiriya frescoes, located on a sheltered rock face about halfway up the side of the fortress, are considered to be one of the most important examples of ancient Sri Lankan art.
The site is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. The climb to the top of the fortress can be challenging, but the views from the top are spectacular, and the historical and cultural significance of the site make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka.