Negombo comes under the heavy influence of the Christian faith; thus, it is given the name ‘Little Rome’ due to its Christian population and exclusively adorned Portuguese-era Roman Catholic churches such as St. Mary’s Church, being amongst the most important structures in the town. It is the biggest cathedral in Negombo and has painted ceiling frescoes, as well as alabaster statues of various saints. The church was constructed in 1874 and is also one of few larger cathedrals in the island.
Negombo is a major tourist destination in Sri Lanka, having one of the best beaches on the west coast, close to international airport. There are many accommodation options here such as Club Hotel Dolphin, an ideally placed hotel Negombo has to offer within easy reach of Catholic churches and other places of interest.
Over 90% of the population of Negombo is Roman Catholic and the churches get a prominent place among buildings in the town. Negombo or ‘Little Rome’ is full of images of Christianity. Apart from the many churches you will also find small Christ and Maria images at street corners, roadsides or at various other locations.
Remnants of colonial buildings include the Dutch Fort built in 1672, as well as centuries-old Portuguese and Dutch houses and administrative buildings. Things to do nearby include taking boat rides at the Muthurajawela Marshland or at the Negombo Lagoon, both of which are home to a wide range of marine life and wildlife. Also of note is the Beach Park of Negombo featuring local handicrafts, batiks and jewellery shops for souvenir hunters.
With its own unique culture and beachside location, Negombo offers a truly unforgettable holiday getaway in Sri Lanka.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Shazzana Hamid is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary. Disguised as Lavinia Woolf she writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.