6 Iconic Historical Landmarks to Explore Colombo's Rich History

Located in the Independence Square in Colombo, this monument symbolises Sri Lanka’s fight for freedom. This structure was built to commemorate the country’s independence in 1948. The Independence Memorial Hall has carved pillars and a beautiful high roof making it a must-visit landmark. Beside the memorial hall is a lush green lawn where locals often come for their daily walks. 

A short 5-minute drive from Cinnamon Red Colombo will take you to the National Museum of Colombo which can give you insights into Sri Lanka’s rich history. The National Museum is a landmark in Colombo and is the oldest and largest museum in Sri Lanka. The Museum has many costumes of kings, ancient manuscripts and the thrones and crowns of Kandyan kings. For someone who would like to delve into the history of Sri Lanka, a visit to the museum is a must. 

When you explore Colombo you will find yourself passing through many temples and churches throughout the city. Out of the many religious sites in Colombo, the Gangaramaya temple is a landmark that should not be missed. Nestled in the heart of Colombo, the temple is a place of worship and a learning and cultural centre. The temple has many religious artefacts around the temple that give visitors a glimpse into the past. As this is a place of worship, it is important to dress modestly and behave appropriately while exploring the temple premises. 

The old Parliament Building in Colombo is an iconic landmark that once housed the Legislative Council of Ceylon. The magnificent architecture of the building makes it hard to miss when you are roaming around the Colombo Fort area. The building now houses the Presidential Secretariat and is a key administrative building in Sri Lanka. Although you cannot enter the building, visitors can take beautiful pictures of the parliament building from outside. 

When talking about iconic landmarks, St. Lucia’s Cathedral is something that cannot be missed. With immense historical and architectural importance, this cathedral is a famous place of worship for Catholics from Colombo and outside. The interior of the cathedral is impressive with high roofs and beautifully crafted stained glass windows. Located in Kotahena, the cathedral can be easily accessed by visitors throughout the year. 

Known as the Colombo Fort Clock Tower nowadays, the Old Colombo Lighthouse was a prominent landmark that guided sailors back in the day. This is a key landmark in Colombo’s maritime history. Surrounded by many architectural monuments built during the colonial era, the lighthouse now stands tall as a clock tower. You can catch a glimpse of the lighthouse when exploring the old Dutch fort that is located nearby.