Vessagiriya is thought to be one of the oldest Cave complexes in the country. By some accounts dating back to Ravana’s father. It is believed that King Vallagamba, fleeing anuradhapura initially had in this complex according to the Mahavamda.The current name of Vessagiriya comes from the fact that this cave complex was handed over to a group of traders turned monks. The Cave complex was expanded to include building for monks, the ruins of which still can be seen. The placement of the stones causes one to wonder whether this is a natural phenomenon. Most rocks are balanced in a manner which seems to defy gravity. The lettering on the drip ledges tells of who donated the caves to the monks. The apparent panels on the face of the rock is called a “Len Dora” of Cave Door. The thinking is that these are magical doors sealed enclosing treasures.