National Museum of Colombo | Colombo

National Museum of Colombo: A Treasure Trove of Sri Lankan History and Culture

The National Museum of Colombo, officially known as the Sri Lanka National Museum, is the largest and one of the most significant museums in Sri Lanka. Located in the heart of Colombo, it offers visitors a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage, history, and art of Sri Lanka, from ancient times to the colonial era and beyond.

Overview

• Location: The museum is situated in the Colombo 7 area, adjacent to Viharamahadevi Park and not far from the Independence Memorial Hall.
• Established: The museum was established in 1877 during the British colonial period and is operated by the Department of National Museums of Sri Lanka.
• Purpose: The primary aim of the museum is to preserve, protect, and showcase the cultural and historical artifacts of Sri Lanka. It serves as a hub for both education and research on the country's rich cultural legacy.

Architectural Features

The building itself is an example of colonial-era architecture, designed by the British architect J.G. Smither. The museum is set in a spacious neoclassical-style building that is marked by its large pillars, expansive hallways, and impressive domed roof.

Key architectural features include:

1. Grand Entrance:
   • The museum is marked by an imposing facade with large columns and a traditional Sri Lankan-style wooden doorway. This entrance is a blend of Western and Eastern architectural influences.
2. Spacious Interior:
   • Inside, the museum has well-lit galleries, some of which are arranged to resemble ancient temples and palaces, providing a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s royal heritage.
3. Courtyards and Gardens:
   • The museum is surrounded by lush gardens and courtyards, which enhance the overall aesthetic and create a serene atmosphere for visitors.

Exhibitions and Collections

The National Museum of Colombo is home to an extensive range of exhibits, including artifacts, sculptures, manuscripts, and historical relics. The museum’s diverse collections span several centuries, reflecting the different cultures and influences that shaped Sri Lanka.

Key exhibits include:

Sculptures and Statues:

• The museum houses a wide array of Buddhist statues, many of which date back to ancient Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods. These sculptures depict various forms of the Buddha, as well as other deities from Sri Lankan mythology.
• Some of the most famous statues include bronze and stone sculptures of Buddha, royal figures, and Hindu deities.

Ancient Artifacts:

• The museum’s collection of ancient artifacts includes pottery, jewelry, and tools used by the early settlers of Sri Lanka, including the prehistoric and ancient kingdoms.

Royal Artifacts:

• The Regalia of the Kandyan Kings are displayed in the museum, including ceremonial weapons, royal crowns, and attire that were used during the time of the Sri Lankan monarchy.

Historical Manuscripts:

• A significant collection of old manuscripts written on palm leaves and bark is displayed, some of which contain Buddhist scriptures and ancient legal codes.

Fossils and Ancient Remains:

• The museum features fossils and skeletal remains of animals and early humans from the prehistoric period of Sri Lanka.

Art and Paintings:

• Visitors can also explore collections of traditional Sri Lankan paintings depicting religious and cultural themes, particularly from the Kandyan period.

Coins and Currency:

• The museum has a collection of ancient coins and currency used during different dynasties, including coins from ancient Sri Lankan kingdoms and the British colonial period.

The Sri Lanka National Museum and its Galleries

The museum is divided into several galleries, each focusing on a different aspect of Sri Lanka’s history and culture:

1. Buddhist Art Gallery:
   • This gallery showcases some of the most important and well-preserved Buddhist artifacts, including early stone sculptures, murals, and artifacts related to the spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
2. Ancient Sri Lankan History Gallery:
   • This gallery provides an overview of Sri Lanka’s history, starting from its prehistoric period to the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. It contains tools, pottery, and stone inscriptions.
3. Kandyan Art and History Gallery:
   • A special focus is placed on the Kandyan Kingdom, the last Sri Lankan kingdom before British colonization. The gallery displays the royal regalia, weapons, and artwork associated with the kings and queens of the Kandyan era.
4. Colonial History Gallery:
   • Exhibits in this gallery trace Sri Lanka’s colonial history under the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. It includes items from the colonial administration and artifacts related to the lives of Sri Lankans under foreign rule.

Cultural and Educational Importance

• Research Center: The National Museum serves as a significant research center for scholars interested in Sri Lankan history, archaeology, and culture. Researchers from around the world visit the museum to study the rich collections.
• Educational Programs: The museum runs educational programs for schoolchildren, university students, and tourists, helping them understand the historical context of the exhibits.
• Temporary Exhibitions: The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing specific aspects of Sri Lankan culture or rotating collections on loan from other institutions.

Visiting the Museum

• Opening Hours: The museum is typically open daily, with some exceptions for public holidays. The general hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's advised to check ahead for any changes.
• Entrance Fee: There is an entry fee for foreigners, which is relatively modest compared to international standards. Sri Lankan nationals often receive a discounted rate.
• Guided Tours: Visitors can also opt for guided tours to learn more about the exhibits in detail. The museum offers guides in multiple languages, including English.

Nearby Attractions

1. Viharamahadevi Park: Located right next to the National Museum, this large public park is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a family picnic.
2. Independence Memorial Hall: A short distance away, this landmark commemorates Sri Lanka's independence and is often a venue for national celebrations.
3. Colombo National Gallery: Just a short walk from the museum, the National Art Gallery exhibits works of contemporary Sri Lankan artists.
4. Gangaramaya Temple: A famous Buddhist temple located nearby, offering a blend of modern and traditional architecture and a museum of its own.

Conclusion

The National Museum of Colombo is not just a repository of Sri Lanka’s past but also a cultural hub that brings the country's history to life. Whether you’re interested in Buddhist art, ancient artifacts, colonial history, or royal regalia, the museum provides an invaluable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s diverse heritage. A visit to the National Museum is a must for anyone seeking to understand the depths of Sri Lanka’s rich and complex history.