Guardians of the Sigiriya Frescoes: A Legal Perspective on Cultural Heritage Management in Sri Lanka

A critical analysis reveals significant gaps in Sri Lanka's legal framework for protecting the Sigiriya frescoes, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. These fifth-century wall paintings, depicting the 'Maidens of the Clouds,' face vulnerabilities due to insufficient environmental safeguards and lack of emergency-response regulations. The study highlights the inadequacy of current laws, including the Antiquities Ordinance and Central Cultural Fund Act, compared to international conservation standards. It proposes redefining Sigiriya's legal status and targeted legislative reforms to ensure sustained preservation, contributing to global heritage law discourse.

Alwis, M. d. (2025). Guardians of the Sigiriya Frescoes: A Legal Perspective on Cultural Heritage Management in Sri Lanka. Asian-European Music Research Journal, 16, 119–128. https://doi.org/10.30819/aemr.16-10