Visit the Colombo Dutch Museum in Colombo, Sri Lanka

The Colombo Dutch Museum is a fascinating and unique museum located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka. The museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century Dutch colonial building that was once the residence of the Dutch governor. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich history and culture.

Location and Directions

The Colombo Dutch Museum is located at Prince Street, Pettah, Colombo 11, Sri Lanka. The approximate latitude and longitude of the museum is 6.9366° N, 79.8567° E.

If you're coming from Colombo city center, you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the museum. The museum is also easily accessible by public transport. You can take a bus or train to Pettah and then walk to the museum from there.

History of the Museum

The Colombo Dutch Museum was established in 1977 to showcase the Dutch colonial heritage of Sri Lanka. The building that houses the museum was originally built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company as the residence of the Dutch governor. The building was later used as a military hospital by the British during their rule of Sri Lanka.

The building underwent extensive renovations in the 1970s to restore it to its original Dutch colonial style. Today, the museum is a popular tourist attraction and a valuable resource for historians and researchers.

Exhibits

The Colombo Dutch Museum has a wide range of exhibits that showcase the Dutch colonial period in Sri Lanka. The museum has a collection of Dutch colonial furniture, including beds, chairs, and tables. There are also displays of Dutch ceramics, glassware, and coins.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Dutch colonial weapons, including swords, guns, and muskets. The museum also has a collection of Dutch colonial paintings and prints that depict life in Sri Lanka during the colonial era.

Visiting the Museum

The Colombo Dutch Museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day except for Mondays and public holidays. Admission to the museum is free, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation to support the museum's upkeep and maintenance.

When visiting the museum, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as there is a lot of walking involved. Photography is allowed inside the museum, but flash photography is not permitted.

Conclusion

The Colombo Dutch Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich history and culture. The museum's unique exhibits and beautiful colonial building make it a fascinating and memorable destination. Whether you're a history buff or a casual tourist, the Colombo Dutch Museum is well worth a visit.