Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is the nation’s hub of political, economic, and cultural activity. With a vibrant culture and diverse society, the bustling city of Colombo is rapidly becoming one of South Asia’s most popular cities. Colombo is also a great tourist destination since the city is home to plenty of recreational attractions, cheap shopping districts, cultural and historic landmarks, and a decent nightlife. For luxury apartments in Colombo check out the up and coming luxury property; Shangri – La One Galle Face.
Sri Lanka has a rich 2500 year old heritage that spans through ancient Sinhalese Kingdoms, three different colonial eras, and a post-independence era. One of the best places to visit to understand and appreciate the fascinating heritage of Sri Lanka is the National Musuem in Colombo. Located in Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha in Colombo 07, the National Museum is Sri Lanka’s most comprehensive and insightful museum in respect of Sri Lanka’s history.
The National Museum in Colombo was established in 1877 and is housed in an opulent Victorian style building. The collection of artifacts, relics, documents, and antiques at the National Museum is truly impressive, with a large number of the items on display being several thousand years old and are priceless. The museum has two levels; the Ground Floor and the Upper Floor. The Ground Floor is dedicated to the pre-historic era and the Sinhalese Kingdoms of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy. Here you will find various artifacts and implements used by the kings, queens, and noblemen of these kingdoms, as well as various items used by Sri Lankans thousands of years ago. The Upper Floor has several displays of various historic items such as paintings, pottery, textiles, arms & ammunition, ceramic ware, traditional agricultural implements, and ancient coins & currency. Some of the highlights of the National Museum include the throne and regalia of the last Sinhalese king of Sri Lanka, a replica of the fames Statue of Tara, the oldest known Pali leaf manuscript, and even a skeleton of a Blue Whale!
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.