AI – ‘Sigiriya in Sri Lanka was built by King Kashyapa I in the 5th century (477–495 AD) as an impenetrable fortress and luxurious royal capital. [1]Who Built It
- King Kashyapa I: The 5th-century king of the Moriya dynasty who usurped the throne after killing his father, King Dhatusena.
- Laborers and Artisans: Thousands of workers, architects, and engineers who carved and constructed the massive complex under royal command. [1, 2, 3]
How It Was Built
- Site Selection: Built upon a 200-meter-high (660 feet) monolithic granite rock (a volcanic plug) rising steeply above the central plains. [1, 2, 3, 4]
- Engineering and Architecture: Features advanced ancient urban planning, terraced gardens, symmetrical water gardens with sophisticated hydraulic systems, and boulder gardens. [1, 2, 3]
- Ascent and Artistry: Constructed with staircases, galleries, and a massive gateway shaped like a giant lion (from which Sinhagiri or Lion Rock gets its name). The rock face was decorated with vibrant frescoes of celestial maidens. [1, 2]
What Purpose It Served
- Royal Citadel and Palace: Served as King Kashyapa’s secure personal residence and the administrative capital of the kingdom. [1, 2]
- Military Defense: Built as a strategic stronghold to protect Kashyapa from his disinherited half-brother and rightful heir, Moggallana, who eventually returned, defeated Kashyapa, and reclaimed the throne. [1, 2]
- Later Religious Use: After Kashyapa’s defeat and death, the palace was abandoned as a capital and reverted to serving as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. [1]’
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