The tropical island of Sri Lanka is a uniquely beautiful place, and so is the nation’s commercial capital of Colombo. One of the city’s most prominent attractions is the Old Dutch Hospital.
Architecture
This is probably the oldest building in Colombo and a great example of Dutch colonial architecture from the 17th century. The design is quite large, with a total of five wings that form two courtyards.
Early History
The hospital is believed to have built by the Dutch sometime around 1681, and was constructed to cater to the medical needs of officers belonging to the Dutch East India Company. Since the hospital was close to the sea, seafarers also had convenient access to medical care.
Post-Independence
From the early 1980s until sometime around the mid 1990s the building was utilised by the Colombo Police as the headquarters for the Fort area. During this time the building was damaged in an attack by the LTTE.
Present Day Dutch Hospital
Presently the Old Dutch Hospital is one of the hottest hangouts and nightlife locales in the city, attracting many staying at Colombo city hotels in the area such as Cinnamon Red Colombo. There are many high-end shops located in the building along with a selection of restaurants.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
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