Description : Sigiriya, the Lion Rock is an ancient rock fortress located in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is a site of historical and archaeological significance, dominated by a massive granite column approximately 180 m (590 ft) high. According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle the Cūḷavaṃsa, this area was a large forest. After storms and landslides it became a hill and was selected by King Kashyapa (CE 477–495) for his new capital. He built his palace on top of this rock and decorated its sides with colourful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure: Sinhagiri, the Lion Rock. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, often called the eighth wonder of the world. Sri Lanka.