Image title: Boulder Arch

This Boulder Arch is on the ancient pathway and is a fine example of adopting the features of the natural landscape in Sigiriya planning. On either side of the boulder arch are two caves prepared as dwellings for the Sangha during the first monastic phase before Kasyapa. In the one on the left is an inscription in early-brahmi script. It says: “Parumaka Kadiya putasha....” which means (the cave of) chieftain Kadiya’s son. What is seen inside the cave is a part of a limestone seat made for the use of meditating monks.

For more details, see previous photo.

Gallery information:

These photos are taken at the Sigiriya rock in Sri Lanka. This archaeological important site dates to the 2nd century BC when it functioned as a monastery. In the fifth century, King Kassapa I transferred the administrative centre from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya in order to  rule from there. The on-site museum displays various artifacts and paintings found at the Sigiriya rock.