Value of the Independence Memorial Hall

Like any national monument that has been built to commemorate a country’s freedom struggle, nothing beats the Independence Memorial Hall for its sheer historical value.

Colombo may not have the cool vibes of Galle, nor will it immerse you in its cultural past like Kandy. But a rich history this city certainly has. And one of the highlights of your tour of the city should be the Independence Memorial Hall, aptly located in Independence Square. If you would like to know what else you can pack in half a day, check out Colombo Highlights in six hours.

Independence Memorial Hall

When Sri Lanka finally gained independence on the 4th of February 1948, power was officially transferred from the British to the newly elected Sri Lanka government on this very site. Independence Memorial Hall is a monument that commemorates that special occasion.

Leading up to the monument is an imposing statue of Don Stephen Senanayake, the first prime minister of independent Sri Lanka, also known as ‘The Father of the Nation’.

Among the most precisely designed structures

To create this magnificent structure, a Welsh architect, and Chief Architect of what was then known as Ceylon named Tom Neville Wynne-Jones brought together a highly talented team of eight renowned architects, including F H and Homi Billimoria, Shirley de Alwis, Oliver Weerasinghe, Justin Samarasekera, and M B Morina.

The architects did not have to look far for their design inspiration. It is based on the Magul Maduwa – the royal court of the king of Kandy – the last kingdom of the island. Interestingly, it was at the Magul Maduwa that the Kandyan king relinquished his throne and handed over the sovereignty of the island to the British empire. Today, the hall is mostly used for religious events and the annual national day celebration. It also makes for an interesting gateway from the hustle and bustle of the city traffic, offering you a respite from the heat, even if it is for a short while.

Time well spent

If Sri Lanka is on your travel itinerary, then spare a day or two, or even half a day, to explore Colombo’s many sights. Most of the city’s attractions are concentrated around Colombo 1 or the Fort Area and Colombo 11 or Pettah, with a few a little bit further. While they may seem distant numerically, you will be surprised at how close these two districts are to each other. And nothing beats a leisurely walk around the Independence Memorial Hall.

If you need a place to unwind, after your whirlwind tour of Colombo, then the Independence Memorial Hall is your place, especially in the evenings. Besides an expansive lawn and a well-maintained garden outside the memorial hall, there is also a museum that you can check out, along with several cafes close by.

A bit of trivia

For fans of reality-based television competition shows, it’s worth noting that this venue has featured in two shows – season four of The Amazing Race Asia and season one of The Amazing Race Australia.