Mirror Wall fungus under the microscope

Priyanka KURUGALA

Speedy action is being taken to remove a white fungus growing on the world famous Mirror Wall (Ketapath Pawura) of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Cultural Affairs Ministry Secretary Wasantha Ekanayake said.

Action in this regard is being taken on the direction of Central Cultural Fund (CCF) Director General Prof Gamini Adikari, he said.

The CCF is the sole authority in charge of Cultural Triangle attractions.

“The white fungus which appeared on the Mirror Wall has to be carefully inspected to ascertain if the fungus is old or of recent origin.

‘Scientific and technical analyzing is being carried out in this regard,’ he said.

The Mirror Wall rock, named so for its mirror like shine, is made from a type of porcelain.

It is covered with poems and verses written by visitors to the rock with some poems dating back to the eight century. Sigiriya is a World Heritage Site and among the country’s chief tourist attractions.