Anuradhapura, renowned as one of the most significant and sacred cities of the ancient world, was the first capital of Sri Lanka. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic city stands as a cornerstone of Buddhism, enriched by its grand history and an extensive array of Buddhist monuments that date back over 2,000 years. Among its remarkable structures are the world’s largest brick monuments, Jethavanaya and Abhayagiriya. The sacred Sri Mahabodhi, a revered Bodhi tree shrine of the Mahaviharaya, was planted in the 3rd century B.C., marking Anuradhapura as a site of profound spiritual significance.

The city’s historical and cultural importance is further enhanced by its sophisticated irrigation systems, which facilitated agricultural prosperity and contributed to the growth of its civilization. Anuradhapura flourished not merely as a religious center but also as a vibrant hub of commerce and trade, attracting pilgrims and travelers from distant lands. The intricate network of canals and reservoirs, a testament to ancient engineering prowess, supported the city’s substantial population and helped sustain its economic vitality.

Mirror Wall

At the highest point of the Terrace Garden, the Mirror Wall can be accessed by a series of steps. This architectural marvel, known for its polished surface, is not only a stunning feature but also a significant literary treasure. The wall bears a wealth of graffiti that reflects the history, society, and economy of the time, capturing the emotions inspired by the beauty of the Sigiriya maidens and the tranquility of the surroundings. Professor Senarath Paranavitana meticulously studied 685 of these poetic inscriptions and published his findings.

Lion Staircase

From the Lion’s Paws Terrace, access to the palace is granted through the Lion King’s Entrance. The Lion Staircase, facing north, is flanked by the majestic lion’s paws, constructed from brick and coated in plaster. Currently, only the two front paws of the colossal lion head are visible. These paws rest on a slender, ornately molded platform, designed to resemble a scaled-up model of a real lion. Historical evidence and remnants suggest that an impressive lion’s jaw once adorned this entrance. It is believed that the rock was originally named Sihagira, which eventually evolved into the present name, Sigiriya.

Paintings

The Western face of the rock was once adorned with vibrant paintings. Within a cave on the rock’s side, visitors can find depictions of heavenly dames, or Apsaras, who graced the king’s court. These ethereal figures are illustrated floating among the clouds, holding flowers and trays as they journey to the nearby temple shrine at Pidurangala. The broad brush strokes and distinctive painting techniques on these figures exemplify the classical qualities of the era. This artistic style bears a striking resemblance to the renowned mural paintings of Ajanta in India.

Royal Palace

Perched at the summit of the rock, the royal palace spans approximately 1.5 hectares and served as the central hub of the ancient city. The palace complex is divided into three main sectors: the lower palace, the upper palace, and the palace garden. Professor Senaka Bandaranayake highlights that the palace, along with the imposing lion, symbolized royal authority and control, casting a powerful presence over the surrounding landscape and asserting dominance across the territory of Sigiriya.