Sigiriya Narratives

A critical examination of local narratives challenges the historical account of Sigiriya's construction in the Mahavamsa, particularly its depiction of King Kashyapa building the ancient site within 18 years. By comparing these narratives with contemporary archaeological practices and historical writings, the study reveals discrepancies that cast doubt on established interpretations. The research employs a comparative approach, analyzing the 'Ten Kings' and 'Two Kings' chapters of the Mahavamsa alongside local texts to highlight inconsistencies in the timeline and construction feasibility. This work not only questions the reliability of traditional sources but also reflects on the broader implications for archaeological methodology.

Obeyesekere, G. (2017). Sigiriya Narratives. The Buddha in Sri Lanka, 109–157. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315102504-5