According to various interpretations of its history, Sigiriya fortress and city complex was developed in the 5th century AD by King Kashyapa and according to another version, it was always a monastic complex. Whatever the truth the complex is a unique example of urban planning and landscape design. The central rock rising 200 metres above the surrounding plain with a palace on top is at the centre of the plan of Sigiriya which includes a mid level terrace, various buildings on the slopes of the rock and inner and outer moats, three ramparts and gardens that extended for several hundred metres from the base of the rock forming a rectangle. The complex comprises of two rectangular precincts in the west and the east spread over 90 hectares and 40 hectares.
Amongst its many impressive features is Sigiriya’s interconnected micro and macro hydraulics systems designed to provide water for all the water needs of the complex, be it recreational, ornamental or otherwise. The system also handled surface drainage, controlled erosion and served as a cooling facility. This micro hydraulic system of shallow water ways, fountains, ponds and pools was connected to the macro hydraulic system comprising of the manmade lake south of the Sigiriya Rock and the inner and outer moats on the west and east of the complex by a system of terracotta pipes laid underground. While serving as water storage and drainage systems, the moats also appear to have been part of a defensive system positioned outside and within the complex as obstacles and bolstered by the ramparts.
The outer moat was apparently designed to flood the entire area between the two moats in case of an external intrusion. The massive inner ramparts run parallel to the inner moat and the complex comes into view only after getting across the inner ramparts. Moats are also part of “Water Garden 3” to the north and south of the fountain garden where two islands are isolated by moats, most certainly for privacy. Whatever purpose the moats may have served, they are still beautiful natural parts of the landscape at Sigiriya.
With the Sigiriya Rock overlooking its premises, Hotel Sigiriya provides easy access to one of Sri Lanka’s most lauded ancient sites. This hotel in Sigiriya is the ideal base from which to explore the famed historic destination and its surroundings through jeep safaris, trekking, hot air ballooning and experience a truly magical holiday. Located amidst a tropical garden, the hotel’s selection of modern rooms is among the most comfortable accommodation in Sigiriya.