Historical research carried out at the site has brought to light evidence to show that the origins of Sigiriya date back to pre-historic times. Situated at the base of the Sigiriya rock of its eastern side, is a monadnock named Aligala (Elephant Rock). In a cave underneath this, excavation have revealed remains of pre-historic human settlements that existed here around 5,500 years B.P. In addition, there is evidence of human habitation in this area, as far back in history as the 9th — 10th centuries B.C. In the 3rd century B.C. a Buddhist monastery had been established at Sigiriya

rock fortress. Thirty cave-shelters with drip-ledges, which accommodate monks, have been identified at the base of the great rock so far. In eight of them, details of donations of cave shelters have been inscribed in Brahmi script. All the principal structures that are found today in Sigiriya, have been erected during the reign of King Kasyapa (A.D. 477 – 495), who chose to make Sigiriya as his seat of administration. According to the eminent archaeologist Prof: Senerath Paranavithana, Sigiriya reflects the sensuousness of a pleasure-loving king, who modeled the city on the mythical Alakamanda of god Kuvera. Indian and Roman coins and pottery belonging to the Sassanian dynasty of Persia (Iran) found in Sigiriya rock fortress as well as the affinity to Persian styles in the creation of pleasure gardens all indicate commercial and cultural relations with foreign countries during this brief period.