Was this grand park always dedicated to a queen? Of course, you’re standing before the magnificent Viharamahadevi Park, an oasis of peace in bustling Colombo. But this park wasn’t always named after Queen Viharamahadevi, the courageous mother of King Dutugamunu. It was initially christened “Victoria Park” in honor of Queen Victoria during British rule. A gift from Charles Henry de Soysa to Colombo, it was a verdant tribute to the monarch across the seas. Imagine, for a moment, the park as it was during World War II. Gone were the serene strolls and playful laughter, replaced by the stern presence of the British Army. The Australian 17th Brigade even set up camp within the park’s boundaries, their presence a stark reminder of the global conflict. However, Viharamahadevi Park, like a phoenix from ashes, was restored to its former glory and reopened to the public in 1951. Today, the park stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history and the enduring power of nature. As you stroll along its pathways, remember the park’s past, from its colonial origins to its wartime occupation and its eventual rebirth as a symbol of peace and national pride.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to