Stunning lost city perches at very top of giant rock - baffling archaeologists [View all]

[Judi Lynn]

Sigiriya was built in the fifth century AD. and means 'lion’s rock' (Image: Getty Images)

Rock ruins give a glimpse into the town's planning and the engineering process that was involved in its creation. Sigiriya was once a sprawling metropolis and created using advanced technology

By Graeme MurrayNews Reporter
07:20, 14 Apr 2024

A stunning lost city was discovered on the very top of giant rock - leaving archaeologists absolutely baffled.

The ruins of the lost city of Sigiriya in the heart of Sri Lanka have become something of a fan-favourite mystery, which still leaves perplexed visitors scratching their heads. The ancient settlement sits high on a rock and towers over the land below. It was a sprawling metropolis and was created using advanced technology – the genius involved in its creation still leaves archaeologists baffled today. Rock ruins give a glimpse into the town's planning and the engineering process that was involved in making the place a reality.



Sigiriya Fortress in Sri Lanka with young Buddhist monks in foreground ( Image: Getty Images)



A visitor almost reaches the top of Sigiriya ( Image: Getty Images)

Although the city comes from a bygone era, it shows what can be achieved by the incredible achievements of the human spirit. The secrets of once powerful place are gradually revealed on a visit there which explains its ancient wonders. The ruins of the capital King Kassapa (477–95) can be found on steep slopes found on the summit of a granite peak standing some 180m high. it is also known as the ‘Lion’s Rock’ and can be seen from both sides which are covered in jungle.

Several galleries and staircase lead to the mouth of the brick-built lion which dominates and provides access to the site. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most well-known monuments and the ancient palace and fortress is considered by some to be one of the wonders of the world.



Royal throne on the top of ancient rock fortress in Sigiriya, Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka ( Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

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