The ruins of Yapahuwa Rock Fortress Complex situated in Wayamba province of Sri Lanka lying between the cities of Kurunagala and Anuradhapura, was one of the medieval transitory capitals in the country within years 1220 to 1354. Yapahuwa citadel was built around a huge granite rock about 100 meters above the neighboring land, with fortifications of sturdy walls and moats. It was found that the site had been used as a Buddhist monastic purposes in early time as on top of the rock, remains of a stupa with Buddha Images, Bodhi tree enclosure and cave shelters at the foot of the rock used by meditation monks, were discovered during the excavation.
Yapahuwa rock fortress was built by King Bhuvanaikabahu when he succeeded the throne from his brother who was assassinated one year later after he was crowned. His brother's death made him highly insecure in Dambadeniya capital city and decided to make his residence and operation hub in Yapahuwa. He made his palace and military stronghold against the foreign invaders as like the Sigiriya Fortress on a 90 meters high rock boulder.
Capital of Sinhala Kingdom was moved to Dambadeniya from Polonnaruwa by King Vijayabahu III (1220-1224) when facing the invasion of South Indian. Dambadeniya reached its zenith of glory after King Parakramabahu II (1236-70) succeeded the throne but when his first successor was assassinated, his second son King Bhuvanaikabahu shifted the capital to Yapahuwa and made a fortress over a huge granite rock in year 1273.
The almost 90 degree long steep stairway made me hesitated to explore the site but was finally convinced by the persons in-charge in the ticket counter. In order to give me encouragement, they rendered me a free entry. Sadhu!
It was indeed a scaring climb especially when you look down!
Ornamental stairway is the greatest show piece.
This was the site that tooth relic of Lord Buddha was taken back by South Indian and later recovered by King Parakramabahu III in year 1288.
The mythical dragon beast along the two sides of staircase are huge and vivid.
The magnificent stone carvings at the remains of Dambadeniya Royal Palace in Yapahuwa Rock Fortress.
The lion stone sculpture was once appeared in the former ten rupee notes of Sri Lanka.
The figurines stone carvings at the base of most of its pillars are impressive.
Gorgeous Ladies stone sculptures
The Walls were uniquely designed with unusual wavelengths!
This way leading to the rock summit takes about another one hour to climb.
The huge granite rock where the 13th century fortification and royal palace were situated.
Distance view from the top of Yapahuwa fortification
The base of Yapahuwa fortress.
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