Old Parliament Building | Colombo

Information

Landmark: Old Parliament Building
City: Colombo
Country: Sri Lanka
Continent: Asia

Old Parliament Building, Colombo, Sri Lanka, Asia

The Old Parliament Building is a governmental structure located in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

It served as the seat of the Sri Lankan Parliament from 1947 to 1983.

Visual Characteristics

The building is constructed primarily of granite and limestone. It features a neoclassical architectural style with a prominent dome and colonnades. The facade is painted a pale yellow, and the structure has a rectangular footprint with a central courtyard.

Location & Access Logistics

The Old Parliament Building is situated on the Galle Face Green, approximately 1.5 kilometers southwest of the Colombo Fort railway station. Access is via Janadhipathi Mawatha (President's Road). Limited public parking is available along Galle Road. The nearest public transport hub is the Colombo Fort bus station and railway station.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the building commenced in 1921 and was completed in 1930. It was designed by architect Arthur Stephenson. Its original purpose was to house the Ceylon State Council, the island's legislature at the time.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior architecture and the surrounding grounds. Photography of the building's facade is permitted. The building is not open for public interior tours.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not publicly available at the immediate site. Shade is limited to the building's overhangs. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this area. Food vendors are typically found along Galle Face Green, a short walk away.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior photography, the late afternoon provides favorable lighting conditions due to the sun's angle. The weather in Colombo is generally warm and humid year-round, with a higher chance of rain during the southwest monsoon season (May to September).

Facts & Legends

A specific historical detail is that the building was originally intended to be named the "Victoria Jubilee Memorial Hall" but was later designated as the Parliament House.