Rock Pool

Sigiriya Rock

No palace would be complete without its own tank, a reservoir that was filled periodically by the monsoon rains. It provided the reserve water supply for the palace, as well as a pleasant spot where Kasyapa could disport with the ladies of his court.

Although Kasyapa has accumulated a bad reputation (for patricide, among other sins), it is well to remember that the history of his reign was written by his (ultimately victorious) enemies. The physical evidence of Sigiriya points to a man who, however vainglorious, at least created a visionary and inspiring monument. Whether he was more like the bad Roman Emperor Nero, or the good Roman Emperor Hadrian, is a question that we cannot answer on present evidence.