Sigiriya, the ancient rock fortress of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its remarkable hydraulic engineering, particularly its gardens, fountains, and water management systems that date back over 1,500 years. Built during the reign of King Kashyapa (473–495 AD), Sigiriya exhibits advanced technology that was far ahead of its time. The site’s water management system remains functional to this day, highlighting the ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan engineering.
The Sigiriya Fountains are among the oldest functioning fountains in the world. During the monsoon season, they operate naturally due to hydraulic pressure. The natural flow of water creates enough force to drive the fountains without the need for mechanical pumps.
Made of limestone slabs with symmetrically drilled holes, these fountains create visually attractive water spectacles. They have remained functional for almost 1,500 years, even during monsoon seasons.
Two main of fountains are can be found:
Cylindrical Fountains: In this type of fountain, water flows upward through cylindrical limestone or terracotta pipes placed underground. Pressure builds up and causes the water to rise as fountains.
Lily-Pad Fountains: These fountains have circular platforms into which water flows, creating a floating effect for pads or leaves placed on the water.
The best time to observe Sigiriya fountains is during the rainy season (December to February), when the high water level activates them, creating a vibrant scene amid lush vegetation.
Conservation
Continuous efforts are being made to preserve these ancient structures as part of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, which remains a key attraction for tourists and scholars alike.
Sigiriya Water Fountain Technologies: How it works
The Hydraulic Engineering of Sigiriya Fountains
The fountains at Sigiriya use a sophisticated hydraulic system that relies on gravity. The water comes from the Sigiriya Reservoir, located at a higher elevation than the gardens. This elevation allows gravity to facilitate the water flow through a complex network of underground terracotta pipes, ensuring efficient transport to various fountains and pools throughout the complex.
The fountains are operated by the Water Pressure Mechanism which works based on the water pressure generated by the difference in elevation. When it rains the bed’s lake fills up so water flows into the inner and outer ditches. This water then travels through underground pipes to activate the fountains, with a small chamber beneath each fountain pressurizing the water to create visually striking displays.
Design Features
The spouts of the fountains are crafted from symmetrically perforated limestone plates. These plates allow water to bubble up through holes, producing elegant water features that have remained functional for nearly 1,500 years, even during monsoon seasons.
The design of the fountain system follows an “echo plan,” where two fountains are placed on both the north and south sides of the garden. This symmetrical arrangement enhances both aesthetic appeal and acoustic experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water.
Seasonal Operation of Sigiriya Fountains
The Sigiriya fountains are primarily activated during the northeast monsoon season (December to February) when rainfall increases water levels significantly. During this period, visitors can witness the fountains in full operation, creating a picturesque scene amidst lush greenery.
Sigiriya Fountains Additional Functionalities
Adjacent to the main fountain area is a miniature water garden, which includes winding waterways and shallow reflecting pools. This area utilizes advanced irrigation technology to maximize water use, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan engineering.
Some sections of the gardens feature L-shaped pools that appear to have been used for bathing. These pools are designed with polished walls and steps, resembling modern swimming facilities and indicating a thoughtful approach to leisure and comfort for royal occupants.
The Sigiriya Water Fountain Technologies is an example of advanced hydraulic engineering from ancient times, combining aesthetic beauty with functional design. The use of gravitational force, innovative materials, and seasonal operation strategies
are ingenious inventions placing Sigiriya under UNESCO Heritage status