Within easy access to some of the best hotels in Kalutara is an ancient Edwardian mansion that was built during the early years of the 20th century. It is situated atop a hill approximately 2 kilometres from Kalutara town and is sprawled over 42 acres.
Overview
Richmond Castle, which is located approximately 8.4 kilometres from Turyaa Kalutara Hotel, is a mansion built by N. R. A. D. Arthur De Silva Wijeysinghe Siriwardena. He was the son of a wealthy planter back in the day and was educated in Britain. This mansion has been inspired by the palace belonging to Maharaja of Ramnad.
Construction
After the initial refusal of the construction plans by Maharaja of Ramnad (Arthur’s school friend) Arthur made sure the same structure was built as a symbol of the power, potential, and splendour of Sri Lanka. Each inch of this building was built using the finest material of the era that were imported from all across the globe.
Architecture
Richmond Castle reflects the architectural influences of European and South-East Asian origins. Four distinct styles of architecture can be identified from its built including Indian royal architecture, local central courtyard tradition, and Roman-Dutch architecture plus a slight Greek design.
Castle Today
Nowadays, Richmond Castle is celebrated as a historical monument that reflects Sri Lanka’s resplendent past and an orphanage is run within its premises.
