When you are in Colombo, you should not miss spending an evening in the Dutch Hospital. Especially if you are in search of an ideal place to shop and enjoy a delectable meal.
History
The Dutch Hospital is one of the oldest buildings in Colombo. It was initially designed as a hospital for soldiers during the Dutch occupation of Sri Lanka. After Sri Lanka received independence, this was also used as the Colombo Fort Police Station until 1990’s. It was in 2011 that the Old Dutch Hospital was transformed into a shopping and a dining arcade.
The architecture
The Dutch Hospital comprises of two central courtyards and five wings. Similar to many Sri Lankan Dutch buildings of the era, the rafters are made of huge teak beams while the walls are about half a meter thick. Overall the entire building provides a comfortable internal environment.
Location
This place is easily accessible from any Colombo hotel the likes of Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, from which the Dutch Hospital is five minutes away.
Shops and cafés
There are many restaurants, bars, and shops where you can spend some time with your friends or family. If you want to savour a mouth-watering seafood dish, heading to the Ministry of the Crab is recommended. In addition, you can indulge in a fragrant herbal bath at Spa Ceylon. Don’t forget to taste some of the delicious tea flavours offered at the Heladiv Tea Club.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
