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Old Parliament

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Have you ever wondered what happened in Sri Lanka before it was an independent nation? This majestic building right before you, the Old Parliament, was once the heart of the country’s legislative power during the British colonial era. It was built between 1925 and 1930, its impressive neo-Baroque architecture hinting at the power of British colonial rule. Designed by British architect Austin Woodeson, who was the chief architect of the Public Works Department of Ceylon, the building was inaugurated on January 29, 1930, by Governor Sir Herbert Stanley. The Old Parliament building was originally meant to house the Legislative Council of Ceylon. But as the island gained independence in 1948, the building took on a new role. It served as a meeting place for the House of Representatives. Not long after, in 1977, it became the Parliament of Sri Lanka, a symbol of a nation finding its own identity under newly established democratic rule. Later, in 1983, the parliament moved to a new building in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. This building, however, remained important. It became home to the Presidential Secretariat, the office of the President of Sri Lanka. It remains a popular tourist attraction even though it’s no longer open to the public. So, the next time you see this stately building, think about its significance in Sri Lanka’s journey toward independence. The Old Parliament tells a story of transformation, reminding all who see it that the country’s history is a journey of struggle and achievement.

After discovering the story of Old Parliament in Colombo, you may wonder how to explore even more of what this vibrant destination has to offer. Explory makes it simple: our digital guide gives you instant access to the city’s culture, history, and unique atmosphere. With our interactive city guide, you can uncover the background of Colombo while following engaging routes designed for curious travelers. Whether you’re on a short trip or staying longer, Explory transforms your visit into a personalized city tour that connects stories with places in an intuitive way. Explory is more than just an ordinary travel tool – it is your companion for deeper exploration of Colombo. Each guide combines expert storytelling with easy navigation, allowing you to discover well-known highlights and hidden gems that most visitors overlook. With the city guide, you can plan your route across landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural spots, all enriched by immersive audio storytelling. Our audio guide brings the atmosphere of Colombo directly to your ears, making each step of your journey more meaningful. Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, history, or everyday culture, Explory helps you connect with the spirit of Colombo. The carefully curated guide highlights what makes this city special, while the interactive city tour lets you explore on your own terms. Thanks to our focus on exploration and unique hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a travel experience that goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. Explory turns every visit into a memorable adventure where stories and places come alive. Download the Explory App now to continue your journey beyond Colombo. Inside the app, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories waiting for you. Whether you are searching for a smart audio guide, planning your next city tour, or simply looking for inspiration through a rich guide, Explory is your key to exploring the world differently. Start today and unlock the full potential of Colombo with Explory – your ultimate travel companion.

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