November 10, 2021

Museum
The Independence

Located at the basement of the Independence Memorial Hall, Independence Square (formally Torrington Square) in the Cinnamon Gardens, one will be astonished to discover a museum at the basement.

Just as the National Museum, this museum is also maintained by the Department of National Museum. The museum honours the national heroes who played a major role in the country’s independence from the British Colonisation. The statues and pictures of patriots, political leaders, clergy as well as renowned authors can be seen here reviving the historical events and struggles the country had to face in the past.

Although the place is not famous and can be said to be mysteriously hidden and one hardly notices it. This museum with an ambience that does not attract many has a lot to offer in terms of knowledge. For those with a knack for history and politics, the museum has volumes to offer.

Things to Expect

  • A small fee is charged to enter the premise
  • Special permission needs to be taken to obtain pictures, hence you will be paying a negligible fee
  • Statues of Figure heads, Politicians, Religious leaders, freedom fighters, authors, etc.
To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our posts.

How to reach

The museum is about 35 Km from the Bandaranaike International Airport and can take an hour to reach during busy hours. 

If you are stationed in Colombo, you can travel by bus and for a quick ride, hire a cab for its much convenient.

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In commemoration of the independence from the British and handing over and reinstatement of the Ceylonese government on 4th February 1948, the Independence Memorial also known as the Independence Commemoration Hall as the name depicts was built marking this historic event where it took place.

The opening of the 1st parliament by Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester occurred during this ceremony bringing new life and hope to the people of “Ceylon” as it was known at the time.

At present the monument hold the statue of Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake also known as the Father of the Nation. Currently the site is employed for religious and cultural events, independence / national day celebrations and many more. If lucky, one may be able to witness wedding photoshoots as well usually with the Bride and the Groom dressed in Sri Lankan traditional dress.

Structure of the Memorial Hall

The structure resembles the Royal Audience Hall from the Kandyan Era known as Magul Maduwa or Celebration Hall. The Architecture is similar to the ancient Sri Lanka with columns, beams and significant sculptures include the lion, the Punkala or pot of prosperity, statues etc.

At present, the Independence Memorial Hall is frequented as a recreational venue for joggers, students from universities close by, promenading couples and families as a getaway place for some quality time. The location in open 24/7 hence no entry timings and restrictions however, amorously canoodling couples, littering and graffiti is strictly policed and discouraged.

Usually what one would over look is the Independence Memorial Museum right below the monument at its basement. So make sure you do not miss out too. 

To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our posts.

How to reach

The tower is about 35 Km from the Bandaranaike International Airport and can take an hour to reach during busy hours. 

During the evenings, the working crowd may visit the jogging paths for their routine exercises and the children with their games. 

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