Having served as the nation’s capital since Colonial times the Sri Lankan capital is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks of historic record. In spite of its contemporary modernity and fast paced lifestyle the city is littered with structures and hotspots that hark back to the island’s tumultuous political legacy and heritage. Often regarded as the top cultural sites by travellers based in resorts, aparthotels and boutique hotels in Colombo the likes of Residence by Uga Escapes and countless others, the attractions offer visitors a glimpse of the city’s past.
The Colombo Fort is one such location. Constructed by Portuguese colonialists the fort was also used and improved by the Dutch. The defence mechanism was built around the Colombo harbour which was a major trading port since ancient times. The Colombo Lighthouse is no less impressive with its clock tower which once housed a clock made by British manufacturers who also supplied the timepiece for London’s Big Ben. Dating back to 1860 the venue is a scenic lookout point in the capital today. The Colombo Dutch House Museum on the other hand documents the history of the island’s Dutch colonial period in a resplendent 17th century residence which once belonged to Count August Van Ranzo. A tour of the museum offers traveller a look back into the occupation of the island and the lifestyles of Dutch colonialists.
Housed within a historic mansion which housed Sir William Henry Gregory, the former British governor of the country, the National Museum in Colombo is a heritage site within and without. Home to some of the island’s finest treasures and relics it is the most illustrious museum space in all of Sri Lanka. The Independence Square is another one of Colombo’s top landmarks and recreational spaces. Those with a flair for the country’s commercial history should visit the Millers Building which is among the first department stores in Sri Lanka. Set up in 1844 The Cargills Millers structure is an ode to British architecture.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
