The Use of water and hydraulics in the landscape design of Sigiriya

Abstract

"The concept of landscape design begins with emerging and developing societies based on agricultural productivity and a symbolic approach to the universe."1 "The design principles and urban environments were created and reflected both the relationship of society and political impacts".2 A Sri Lankan civilization flourishing for more than two thousand five hundred years has made many out standing contributions to art, landscape architecture and technology. In ancient city planning and urban landscape design of Sri Lanka it is possible to identify planning principles and concepts which integrate manmade and natural elements. The Archaeological remains of different periods in its history reflect these Sri Lankan concepts and principles of landscape design. When selecting a site for a city, in addition to being a strategic point for protection and safety its topography, aesthetics and availability were also carefully considered. The fortified garden city of Sigiriya is considered as a classic example of identifying landscape design concepts with Sri Lankan traditions of hydraulic engineering. A description of Sigiriya's landscape design concept has been appropriately summarized in verse by a contemporary poet. "When Sigiriya on its base and crest, Bore noble works of man And clinging to its scraped breast The guarded galleries ran"3 Built on the summit and surrounding slopes of the Sigiriya rock, this fortress city is an accepted master piece of ancient landscape architecture, construction technology and hydrology. This dissertation attempts to focus on selected aspects of the Sri Lankan uses of water in landscape design, based on the development of hydraulic technology, during the Anuradapura period, and as applied at Sigiriya. The first chapter summarizes the historical background of Sigiriya. The development of Sri Lankan hydraulic technology and water uses in Anuradapura period is outlined in the second chapter. The design concept, principles and water uses of landscape are detailed in the third chapter. Hydraulic details within and around the Sigiriya citadel are dealt with in the fourth chapter. The fifth chapter ends the dissertation with a concluding discussion and suggestions. 1. Jung C.G. The Spirit in man Art & Litreture : London - 1966 2. Jellicoe, Susan & Geoffery : The Landscape of Man: London - 1975 3. S. Paranavithana Sigiri Graffity : Colombo.