Lion's paws, Sigiriya Overview

Perhaps the most iconic structure of the Sigiriya fortress, Lion’s Paws is situated just before the summit of Sigiriya Rock. As the name suggests, the structure is composed of two gigantic paws, flanking a staircase that leads to the royal palace.

The attraction was initially an exquisitely chiselled and enormous structure of the head, chest and paws of a crouching lion with open jaws, guarding the entrance to the 5th-century royal residence of King Kashyapa I. But all that remains today are the paws, a reminder of the significance and opulence of King Kashyapa’s reign.

Photos of Lion's paws

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History Of Lion’s Paws, Sigiriya

Lion’s Paws was discovered during the excavations of the site by HCP Bell, a British archaeologist, in 1898. The structure was built with brick and had a staircase of limestone. Visitors to King Kashyapa’s palace seemingly climbed the steps through the mouth and the throat of the lion. The fortress earns its name ‘Lion Rock’ from this structure. After the excavations, the structure was partly restored in the 20th century. The lion is believed to have symbolized royal authority and prestige.

Graffiti from the 9th century, four centuries after King Kashyapa’s reign, have been uncovered on the Mirror Wall, indicating that visitors, even years later, were immensely impressed by the lion staircase.