Ever wondered where Sri Lanka’s majestic past resides? The National Museum of Colombo is its home. This grand building before you holds the treasures of Sri Lanka’s history.
The National Museum of Colombo began its journey in 1877. Sir William Henry Gregory founded it. He was the British Governor of Ceylon then. The Royal Asiatic Society recognized the need for a public museum. They convinced Governor Gregory to take action.
J.G. Smither designed this museum. He was an architect for the Public Works Department. He chose an Italian architectural style. The museum’s construction finished in 1876. It opened its doors the following year. Wapchie Marikar oversaw the building work. He also built other famous Colombo landmarks. These include the General Post Office and the Old Town Hall.
Inside the National Museum of Colombo, cultural and natural heritage come alive. Dr. P.E.P. Deraniyagala elevated the museum to international standards. He opened branch museums in other cities. Jaffna, Kandy and Ratnapura all benefited. In 1942, the Department of National Museums formed. It manages the museum’s growing network. Now, there are nine branch museums.
The National Museum of Colombo arranges its exhibits thoughtfully. The ground floor galleries follow a historical sequence. The upper galleries explore different themes. One of the most remarkable exhibits is the throne. It belonged to the last king of Sri Lanka. The British returned it to the people. When it was first displayed in 1934, crowds flocked to see it. Around 750000 people came to witness the treasures. You can also see a big collection of masks and puppets.
The National Museum of Colombo also includes a library. It started as the Government Oriental Library in 1870. It became part of the museum in 1877. The library holds many old publications. They document over 133 years of history. Palm leaf manuscripts form a special collection. They cover various subjects. These include Buddhism, medicine and folklore.
Since 1950, the Photography Division has preserved the museum’s images. It photographs artifacts and natural specimens. These images support research and education. The IT division safeguards the museum’s data. It manages the museum’s website.
Stepping into the National Museum of Colombo is a journey through time. It’s a chance to connect with Sri Lanka’s cultural identity. The Italian design reminds us of the colonial era. Yet, inside, the spirit of Sri Lanka shines brightly. The National Museum of Colombo stands as a testament to history. It ensures that stories live on for generations. Take a moment to appreciate the dedication. It preserves the past for us and for the future.