Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in the city of Dabulla, central Provence of Sri Lanka. The rock is around 200 meters high and according to the ancient history this was selected as the capital by king Kashyapa I(477 – 495 CE) and build his palace on top of the rock.
Previously I have posted about the Sigiriya paintings,the Lion Gate and the palace on the rock.
- "Sigiri Apsarawo" - The painting of the Sigiriya Ladies (Original Photo's)
- The Lion Gate - Sigiriya (Original photos)
- Palace on the Rock - Sigiriya (Original Photos)
Today I wanted to talk about the surrounding garden area of the rock fortress. They have build three water gardens before the entrance to the rock palace. And the gardens is filled with ponds, buildings and lot of unbelievable architecture where still some of them are mystery to archaeologists.
Back in the days they had water fountain in the garden and those are still functioning in raining time. Just imagine the technology they used in 1600 years ago.
This is how fountain looks today.(I took this photo while I was there)
Here are some of the photos of fountain in action (from internet)
Source - tuktukandtaxitours
Source - fortheloveoflanka
Check this video also.
Source - Thilina Chandima
You check more details about the water gardens from here.
Here are my photos of the garden,
There is a audience hall near to the rock, which was used to hearings of issues and entertainment purpose.
Also please check this awesome 3D simulation video about how "Sigiriya" looks like back in the days.
Source - Lamahewa Indika
