National Museum, Colombo

National Museum, Colombo (3 September, 2005)


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The National Museum at Albert Crescent is the oldest and most prestigious museum in Sri Lanka. It is located at Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha (Albert Crescent), Colombo. The colonial building housing it was constructed in 1877 by Sir William Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon between 1872-1877. Sir William's statue adorns the lawn of the National Museum.

The architect of the National Museum was Arasy Marikar Wapuche, a Muslim descendant of Moorish people who is famous for his buildings in Grenada and Cordova. The British commissioners were said to be so pleased with the building he designed that they promised to grant him any reward he so desired. The devout architect responded that he wished to be allowed the freedom to worship on Fridays. That wish was granted, and the National Museum is closed every Friday so that its Muslim workers can perform their Friday prayers.

Driveway, National Museum, Colombo (3 September, 2005)


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Although the National Museum is highly regarded, I was a bit put off that such a prestigious organisation does not even have air conditioning! But then again, I was coming from a country where almost every building is air conditioned, so perhaps it is not fair for me to impose my level of expectation to a different country.

The collection provides a good coverage of Sri Lankan history, beginning with artefacts from Anuradhapura, and going through the many centuries. In addition, there were representation of cultural artefacts, Kandyan art, dance masks, puppetry, etc. Anybody who has the time to slowly go through the exhibits should be quite engrossed.

Ancient artifacts, National Museum (3 September, 2005)


Stone statue, National Museum (3 September, 2005)


Tribal masks, National Museum (3 September, 2005)


Whale skeleton, National Museum (3 September, 2005)


Folk puppets, National Museum (3 September, 2005)


Stairs, National Museum (3 September, 2005)


Furniture and pots, National Museum (3 September, 2005)


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