Archive · 20 Jul 2026
Sigiriya: Unveiling the True History of Sri Lanka's Ancient Fortress
Sigiriya is a famous rock fortress in Sri Lanka.
It was built by King Kassapa I in the 5th century CE.
Many people think it's from the Ramayana, but that's not true.
It's a real historical place with beautiful gardens and a palace on top of a big rock.
King Kassapa built it after he took the throne from his father.
His brother later defeated him, and the fortress was abandoned.
People didn't know much about it until British officers found it in the 1800s.
Now, it's a popular tourist spot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Scientists are still studying it to learn more.
Sigiriya was built by King Kassapa I in the 5th century CE, not as a mythical palace from the Ramayana.
The fortress includes a palace, water gardens, and murals, showcasing advanced engineering and artistry.
King Kassapa I moved the capital to Sigiriya after overthrowing his father, King Dhatusena.
The site was abandoned after Kassapa's defeat by his brother Moggallana and later rediscovered by British officers in the 19th century.
Sigiriya is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with strict conservation efforts and significant tourist revenue.
- Who
- King Kassapa I, King Dhatusena, King Moggallana, British officers, Archaeologists
- What
- Construction and history of the Sigiriya rock fortress
- When
- 5th century CE, 1831 (first European visit), 1895-1898 (archaeological excavation), 1982 (UNESCO designation)
- Where
- Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
- Why
- King Kassapa I built the fortress to immortalize his name and as a royal estate, not purely for defense
- Location
- Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
- Construction Period
- 5th century CE
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 1982
- Height of the Rock Fortress
- 200 metres
- King Responsible for Construction
- King Kassapa I
- Current Ticket Price for Foreign Tourists
- $35 (as of 2026)
- Current Ticket Price for SAARC Nations
- $20 (as of 2026)