An untold story of Sri Lanka’s ancient monuments, compounded by a lack of knowledgeable guides on tour, has kept much of the country’s mysteries of the past unknown to the world.
Sigiriya, probably the more publicised historical attraction of the Island, is a towering rock fortress that has been around for over two millennia, an architectural marvel on par with the Pyramids of Egypt. As you approach, the grandeur of the ancient engineering leaves you breathless, the intricacy of its frescoes and the grandeur of the Lion’s Gate transporting you back to a time when this was a bustling royal citadel. The awe of witnessing such a monumental achievement in ancient architecture and science is an experience that transcends mere description; it’s a journey into the soul of a civilisation that mastered the art of balance between beauty and strength.
The Island boasts two of the oldest languages in the world and has a documented history of over 3000 years. With such a rich history, the Island presents many ancient mysteries to discerning travellers. Some monuments are documented with legend, while others leave you wondering how. In Anuradhapura, the ancient capital, you’re dwarfed by the colossal standing Buddha statues, their sheer scale humbling you as you ponder the mysteries of their creation. The precision of these rock carvings, done with tools and techniques lost to time, baffles modern science.
The rock paintings, vibrant even after centuries, tell stories of gods, goddesses and celestial beings. They offer a glimpse into the artistic prowess and cultural richness of an era long gone but never forgotten. The myth and legend of the Nagas, an ancient serpent-worshipping people, weave through the Island’s history, from the sacred temple of Kelaniya to the revered Nagadeepa in Jaffna. This enduring connection to a mythical past adds an enigmatic layer to the Island’s cultural tapestry. Off the beaten path, more mysteries of history await, but few venture.
As you delve deeper, the echoes of historical travellers resonate. Marco Polo, who described Sri Lanka as one of the finest islands in the world and Robert Knox, who was captured as a prisoner and later escaped to write his detailed accounts, offer glimpses into an island once a central hub to the old world. As the gateway between the West and East, the Island carries many artefacts of travellers, well wishes and invaders of the past.
To experience Sri Lanka’s ancient ruins is to step into a world where history, legend and myth intertwine. It’s an island that has been a beacon of civilisation, offering a window into a past that continues to inspire and mystify. Here, the echoes of a grand history are felt in every stone, every fresco and every legend, making it an experience that goes beyond the ordinary, leaving a lasting imprint on the soul.
