Sigiriya | The Lions Rock Dambulla | Go Places Sri Lanka Short Video

Sri Lanka lies just off the southeastern coast of India, a small island about the size of West Virginia (or a tad smaller than Austria or Scotland for European readers).

It is known as “the Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” a tribute to the island’s natural beauty, people – even its shape.

Located in the Matale District of the Central Province (map), the column of rock is somewhat central to the country. Historians believe the region has been inhabited since the 3rd century BCE, making the site one of historical and archaeological significance to Sri Lanka.

The rock is known as Sīhāgiri, meaning “Lion Rock,” a nod to the giant animal carved from stone which greeted visitors at the entrance.

The site was a temporary capital from 477-495 CE when Sri Lanka was under the rule of King Kashyapa.

The Lion Rock

King Kashyapa chose Sigiriya because he believed it would give his forces a strategic advantage if attacked. Its elevated position was an advantage to the defensive stronghold, offering fantastic 360-degree views. Plans to build a city quickly unfolded and after several years, the Sigiriya complex had become a bustling center for the new King.

The igneous rock earned its name from the enormous lion which greeted visitors halfway up the rock on a small plateau. A gateway to the Sigiriya, a lion carved from rock served to both welcome visitors and warn enemies.