The Mirror Wall at Sigiriya is another fascinating feature of the ancient rock fortress. It is located below the famous frescoes on the western side of the rock and serves both as a historical artifact and as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of ancient Sri Lanka. The wall earned its name because, in its prime, it was so highly polished that it was said to reflect the king’s image as he walked past.
More Details – Sigiriya Lion’s Rock
The Mirror Wall Sigiriya:
History and Purpose:
- Construction and Appearance: The Mirror Wall was constructed during the reign of King Kashyapa I in the 5th century CE. It was originally plastered and polished with a mixture of lime, egg whites, and honey to create a highly reflective surface. The smooth, shiny wall was meant to be both aesthetically pleasing and functional, allowing the king and his entourage to see their reflections as they passed by.
- Location: The Mirror Wall runs along the staircase that leads to the summit of Sigiriya, where the king’s palace once stood. It is located below the fresco gallery, where the famous Sigiriya Maidens are painted on the rock. Visitors ascending to the palace would pass this wall on their way to the top, making it a central feature of the Sigiriya experience in ancient times.
- Function: The primary function of the Mirror Wall was decorative, adding to the grandeur and splendor of the Sigiriya rock fortress. However, it also had a symbolic role. The polished surface may have symbolized the refinement and sophistication of King Kashyapa’s court and his desire to create a paradise on earth. It also reinforced the notion of the king’s god-like presence, as he could see his reflection while walking through his majestic creation.
Graffiti on the Mirror Wall:
Over time, the Mirror Wall became more than just a reflective surface. It turned into a canvas for ancient graffiti, where visitors inscribed their thoughts, poems, and comments about their experience at Sigiriya and their admiration for the frescoes and the site.
- Ancient Inscriptions: The inscriptions, written mainly in Sinhala, Tamil, and some early forms of other languages, date from the 8th to the 13th centuries. They provide a rare and valuable insight into the thoughts and feelings of ancient travelers, pilgrims, and even commoners who visited Sigiriya. These inscriptions are considered some of the earliest examples of Sri Lankan poetry and offer fascinating commentary on the beauty of the frescoes and the rock fortress.
- Themes of the Graffiti:
- Poetry: Many of the inscriptions are poetic expressions praising the beauty of the frescoes and the site itself. Some are love poems directed toward the women depicted in the frescoes, while others admire the craftsmanship and skill of the artists.
- Admiration for the Frescoes: Several inscriptions express admiration for the Sigiriya Maidens, commenting on their grace, beauty, and elegance. These verses provide a glimpse into how the frescoes were perceived in ancient times.
- Personal Thoughts: Other inscriptions reveal personal reflections from visitors about their journey to Sigiriya or their thoughts about the rock fortress.
- “The maidens who carry flowers are like lightning; their eyes are blue lotus.”
- “A thousand kings have walked upon this rock and gazed upon these beauties.”
- Historical Significance: The graffiti on the Mirror Wall is a remarkable historical record, as it captures the voices of ordinary people from ancient Sri Lanka. This offers a unique perspective, as most surviving ancient records are typically royal decrees or religious texts. The spontaneous and personal nature of these inscriptions makes them an invaluable resource for historians and linguists studying the cultural and social history of Sri Lanka.
Preservation Efforts:
Due to the fragility of the Mirror Wall and the valuable inscriptions it contains, there have been ongoing efforts to preserve and protect it from further damage. In modern times, visitors are no longer allowed to write on the wall, and strict regulations are in place to prevent its deterioration. Over the centuries, the reflective surface of the wall has faded, but the inscriptions remain legible and continue to provide insights into the historical significance of Sigiriya.
Modern Importance:
Today, the Mirror Wall is considered one of the most important features of Sigiriya, not only for its original artistic purpose but also for the cultural and historical value of the inscriptions. It has become a focal point for scholars studying ancient Sri Lankan literature, language, and art. The graffiti, in particular, reflects the interactions between people of different backgrounds, offering a rare glimpse into the thoughts and emotions of those who visited Sigiriya centuries ago.
Day Tour Price to Sigiriya
- Day Tour & Transport Cost for Sigiriya:
From Colombo Start from 95 USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
From Sigiriya Start from 60USD PP (Pax 1 to 8)
Private tour in an A/C car or van with an English speaking chauffeur-guide
Vehicle Options:
Car (up to 2 persons): Toyota Axio, Prius Hybrid, Premio/Honda Fit Shuttle or similar
Van (3 to 8 persons): Toyota KDH/Nissan Caravan or similar - Included – Entrance Tickets, Refreshment, Transport
- Entrance ticket fee for Sigiriya Lion’s Rock – Ticket price for each place US$ 35 / EUR 31 / GBP 26) per foreign adult and US$ 17 / EUR 16 / GBP 13 ticket price per foreign child of age 05 – 12 years are applicable.