COBRA HOOD CAVE, Sigiriya

Herbert Daniel Gebauer - 06/01/2018

A modified natural rock shelter containing rock art (paintings, inscription). ETYMOLOGY: This rocky projection earned its name because the overhang resembles a fully opened cobra's head (LONELY PLANET 2003: 229). SITUATION: LONELY PLANET (2003: 228 -Sigiriya- location map) indicates item 7 (Cobra Hood Cave) about 200 m in a direct line south-west of the –>Sigiriya Rock (note 1): Generally you will pass by this cave after descending the rock on your way to the south gate and the car park (LONELY PLANET 2003: 229). CULTURAL HISTORY - rock art: Below the drip ledge is a 2nd-century BC inscription that indicates it belonged to Chief Naguli, who would have donated it to a monk. The plastered interior of the cave was once embellished with floral and animal paintings (LONELY PLANET 2003: 229).A modified natural rock shelter containing rock art (paintings, inscription). ETYMOLOGY: This rocky projection earned its name because the overhang resembles a fully opened cobra's head (LONELY PLANET 2003: 229). SITUATION: LONELY PLANET (2003: 228 -Sigiriya- location map) indicates item 7 (Cobra Hood Cave) about 200 m in a direct line south-west of the –>Sigiriya Rock (note 1): Generally you will pass by this cave after descending the rock on your way to the south gate and the car park (LONELY PLANET 2003: 229). CULTURAL HISTORY - rock art: Below the drip ledge is a 2nd-century BC inscription that indicates it belonged to Chief Naguli, who would have donated it to a monk. The plastered interior of the cave was once embellished with floral and animal paintings (LONELY PLANET 2003: 229).