One of the noteworthy sightseeing attractions in Colombo would be Independence Square and Memorial Hall which is often visited by locals and tourists alike for relaxation and recreation.
Location
You will find that the centrally located Independence Square and Memorial Hall would be an important historical attraction in the city located amidst the attractive locality of Cinnamon Gardens; it is an important cultural monument and one of the hotels in Colombo to consider from which you could easily visit this site would be the appealingly located Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo.
History
Independence Square is named after the Independence Memorial Hall which commemorates the gaining of Sri Lanka’s independence from the colonial ruler, Britain. The Memorial Hall stands at the location where the Duke of Gloucester Prince Henry officially opened the island nation’s first parliament marking the commencement of its self-rule.
Architecture and features
You will see that the Independence Memorial Hall features architecture drawing inspiration from Kandy’s Audience Hall or Magul Maduwa. Visitors will find that its pillars and columns are embellished with traditional local motifs. Don’t miss the fascinating Independence Memorial Museum which documents the struggle for freedom at a site in the hall’s basement.
A leisure site
Outside the Memorial Hall, you would find an extensive green lawn featuring appealing cycling tracks, walking paths and several benches. Today, you will find that many leisure seekers including joggers, couples taking a stroll, families seeking a respite from the city environment and students attending the neighbouring university often frequent this square.
