The abandoned fortress on top of a massive 590ft rock still confusing archaeologists

An ancient rock fortress that sits atop a stone plateau is a site of both archaeological and historical significance.

The site consists of a palace with a massive column of granite roughly 590ft high dominating this awe-inspiring site.

This near-impossible human creation includes a stone-built city which was created more than 1,500 years ago.

Despite its age, the site is well preserved and includes wall paintings of palace life, which are still protected today with a burst of colour seen by vertical stone cliffs.

This ancient fortress is found near the town of Dambulla in the northern Matale District in Sri Lanka.

Known as Sigiriya, or Lion Rock, this spot holds the prestigious title of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It was built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. The Sri Lankan monarch also created the ancient citadel where the fortress is located.

Alongside the citadel, an upper palace is found on the top of the rock, which includes cisterns cut into the rock and lower palaces found on the slopes below the rocks.

He also built an enormous lion, which is found on a small plateau about halfway up the side of this rock.

The surrounding gardens of Sigiriya are also a marvel in itself and are among the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. They include a dramatic cave as well as water, boulder and terraced gardens.

After King Kashyapa’s death, this royal palace and fortress were abandoned.

Thereafter, it was occupied by a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century, with several rock shelters being created during this time.

Today, Sigiriya Rock stands as a true majestic wonder of the world with its rock formations leaving all in awe at its cultural connection of beauty, practicality and ancient material.

One review on TripAdvisor read: “Sigiriya is a fantastic hike and a truly pleasant experience”.

Another added: “The climb is slightly difficult but nevertheless enjoyable due to pleasant views. 

“And once you climb, the sheer joy of seeing the marvel is such that your tiredness vanishes. It’s a must visit place if you’re in Sri Lanka.”