Navigating SLAVE ISLAND's Hidden Treasures...

Slave Island

The area got its name during the British occupation and originates from the Portuguese and Dutch period of administration when slaves, mostly African, were brought here. Since then, the area has evolved into a commercial locale with business establishments, hotels and shopping centers.


-The Slave Island Railway Station -

Stands strong as a symbol of our British heritage. The station was and still is known for its architectural worth. It remains an emblem of Victorian art, with its stylish arches, intricate woodwork, neo-modern metal installations and the signature mixing of iron and stone.





-THE RIO- 



opened in 1965, it was to offer Sri Lankans their first sight of a 70mm TODD-AO projection system.  It has remained a ‘living ruin’ and a time capsule within the city’s consciousness.







-HOTEL NIPPON- 

Hotel Nippon is one of Sri Lanka’s first five hotels. The building is protected by the Archeological Department of Sri Lanka, and was refurbished recently. The 3-storied elongated hotel building bears architectural features of the British Period.












-SEEMA MALKA- 

designed by architect Geoffrey Bawa, stands as a testament to the fusion of modern architecture with traditional Sri Lankan design elements. This iconic structure, located in the heart of Colombo, is not merely a place of worship but a symphony of architectural brilliance that captivates visitors with its serene ambiance and meticulous design.


-The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters (1978-81)-

Designed by Justin Samarasekera associates with lead architect Douglas Ponniah. The design took into consideration the surrounding buildings and housing structures, avoiding an imposing structure and instead having interconnected buildings with tiled roofs.



-Arulmihu  Sivasubramania Swami Kovil(1994)-

A tower made up of intricate carvings of small statues rises to a height of about 80 feet and looms over as if to protect the sacred temple underneath.  It is also accompanied by two smaller towers and a clockhouse.







-Masjidul Jamiah Mosque-

Historical mosque with an elegant facade. It is known as the " Malay military mosque" because it was built and used by Malay military men during the 19th century.







-Tata Housing Complex-

    
The Tata housing complex can be seen in the distance..

-The Altair tower-

Designed by Moshe Safdie of Safdie Architects, the tallest residential building in Sri Lanka, provides outdoor garden terraces at every level with an innovative two-leg structural design.
The Altair tower and Colombo City Centre standing in front of Seema Malaka .


-Cinnamon Life Integrated Resort-

Designed by  architect Cecil Balmond.

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