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Monday 23 August 2010

Sri Lanka President on an inspection tour to Sigiriya to assess the state of frescoes


Following the news of the discolouring and some fading of the famed Sigiriya frescoes, President Mahinda Rajapaksa carried out an observation and inspection tour of the World Heritage Site today (23), to assess the current state of the frescoes and identify ways of preserving them.

The Government Information Department said the visit was made three days after a comprehensive report on the current state of the frescoes was handed over to the President that white spots appearing on the famous frescoes.

(Photos by Sudath Silva)
Those accompanying the President included Minister of Heritage and Cultural Affairs, Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Chief Minister of Central Province Sarath Ekanayaka, MP Lakshman Perera, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary at Ministry of Heritage and Cultural Affairs, Mr. Wimal Rubesinghe and Director General Dr. Senerath Dissanayake.
Director General of the Archaeological Department Prof. Senerath Dissanayake meanwhile, said the government is considering inviting a renowned Italian expert to the country to restore the frescoes to its original state.
According to the Director General the 22 frescoes at Sigiriya need a complete facelift as the original colours had been fading gradually since 1930.

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