Colombo Fort Church built by the Dutch in 1678

Completed in 1678, the Fort Church was built by the Dutch to the skill of its designers.

Church built by the Dutch in 1678 Located in the heart of the Colombo Fort district, this historic building was designed by Gerard de Kock, a Dutch architect who played a significant role in shaping the city’s built environment during the Dutch colonial era.

Impressively completed in 1678, the Fort Church The church bears the distinctive Dutch Reformation style that was common among Protestant churches of that era. However, the doorway is 12 feet high and still bears witness to the skill of its designers. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with high, vaulted ceilings and intricate stone carvings adorning its walls and columns. Apart from its architectural beauty, Fort Masjid is an important cultural and historical site. For centuries it has served as a sacred place and spiritual refuge for the people of Colombo and has played a major role in the cultural and religious life of the city.

Special seat area for the governor

A special seat area for the governor, another for the nobles, and faculties for the citizens are still seen. Back then, there was also a special area with adequate security for the prisoners. The pulpit was scientifically designed and built to allow the priest’s voice to travel to every corner of the church through acoustics. In addition, all participants in the cathedral are prepared. Face the preacher. The pipe organ can still be seen today, as well as much of the furniture of the day, which survives today, although not in working condition. Many of the island’s nobles and governors are buried in the chapel and its courtyard. Incense and garlands during the fragrance would have decorated this magnificent structure in the old days, which is now engulfed by the urban sprawl around it. But that does not diminish the architectural prowess of the Dutch and is a testament to their ingenuity.

Today it is a popular destination for tourists and locals and is considered one of the city’s most important landmarks. Wollvendaal Church is Said to be the oldest Dutch building in continuous use to this day, Wollvendaal Church serves Petakoto. As a great example of Dutch architecture. The church was built

On the site of a small Portuguese church, it was razed to the ground before it was built. The walls of the church are about 5 feet thick and stretch long. At 100 feet, it still stands as a testament to the Dutch’s prodigious design and architectural prowess. It is said that the church was built using African slave labour, and there is also a tunnel connecting the port.

A structure of olden days, it is now engulfed by the surrounding urban sprawl. It. and still no less testify to the architectural expertise of the Dutch and their ingenuity.

These buildings helped to shape the architectural landscape of Colombo during the colonial period and continue to be important landmarks in the city today.

During the colonial period, Colombo was a city that saw a significant amount of architectural development. Many new buildings were constructed, and these helped to shape the architectural landscape of the city. Some of the most significant buildings that were constructed during this time include the Colombo Town Hall, the Dutch Hospital, and the Old Parliament Building. These buildings continue to be important landmarks in Colombo today and are a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

The Colombo Town Hall is a grand building that was constructed in the late 19th century. It is located in the heart of the city and is a popular tourist attraction. The building is a classic example of Victorian architecture and is characterized by its grand columns, arched windows, and ornate decorations. The Town Hall is a popular venue for events and is frequently used for concerts, exhibitions, and other public gatherings.

The Dutch Hospital is another important building in Colombo that was constructed during the colonial period. It is a historic building that dates back to the 17th century and is considered to be one of the oldest buildings in the city. The hospital was originally built by the Dutch East India Company as a hospital for their employees, and it is now a popular shopping and dining destination. The building is notable for its Dutch colonial architecture, which is characterized by its red-tiled roofs, white walls, and arched windows.

The Old Parliament Building is another significant building in Colombo that was constructed during the colonial period. It is a grand building that was built in the late 19th century, and it is located in the centre of the city. The building is a classic example of British colonial architecture and is characterized by its grand columns, arched windows, and ornate decorations. The Old Parliament Building is now home to the National Museum of Colombo, and it is a popular tourist attraction.

In conclusion, the Colombo Town Hall, the Dutch Hospital, and the Old Parliament Building are three important buildings that helped to shape the architectural landscape of Colombo during the colonial period. These buildings continue to be important landmarks in the city today and are a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

F&Q

1. What was the architecture of the Dutch colony?

Dutch colonial architecture in Sri Lanka was characterized by:

Practical designs suited to the tropical climate:
Thick walls: Helped keep interiors cool and reduced heat.
High ceilings: Allowed better air circulation.
Large windows and verandas: Provided ventilation and shade.
Symmetry: Dutch buildings often had symmetrical layouts.
Red clay-tiled roofs: A signature element of Dutch architecture.
Central courtyards: Common in Dutch residences and hospitals, offering a private open space.
Functional structures: Dutch churches, forts, and hospitals prioritized durability and simplicity.
Use of local materials: Such as coral stone, timber, and clay for construction.
Examples:

Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Dutch walls, bastions, and colonial buildings.
Wolvendaal Church: A Dutch Reformed church in Colombo, built in 1757, famous for its solid design.

2. What is the famous architecture in Sri Lanka?

Sigiriya Rock Fortress: An ancient marvel with rock-carved stairways, frescoes, and water gardens (5th century).
Temple of the Tooth Relic (Kandy): A Buddhist temple blending traditional Sinhalese and Kandyan architectural styles.
Galle Fort: A well-preserved Dutch colonial fort and a major UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jethawanaramaya Stupa (Anuradhapura): One of the tallest ancient stupas in the world.
Old Parliament Building (Colombo): An example of British colonial neoclassical architecture.

3. What is the name of Dutch architecture?

Dutch architecture during colonial times is often referred to as “Dutch colonial architecture.” In Sri Lanka, it was a blend of traditional Dutch design principles adapted to tropical conditions, sometimes referred to as Dutch-Indo architecture.

4. How did the Dutch influence Sri Lanka?

The Dutch ruled parts of Sri Lanka from 1658 to 1796, leaving a lasting impact:

Architecture:
They built forts, churches, and administrative buildings, many of which still stand today, such as Galle Fort and Jaffna Fort.
Introduced distinctive elements like courtyards, clay-tiled roofs, and spacious layouts.
Urban planning: Dutch towns like Galle were designed with grids and drainage systems, reflecting advanced urban design principles.
Legal system: The Roman-Dutch law introduced by the Dutch remains part of Sri Lanka’s legal system.
Trade and commerce: The Dutch controlled spice trade, especially cinnamon, establishing plantations and export networks.
Cultural exchange: They influenced Sri Lankan cuisine (e.g., Lamprais, a Dutch-influenced rice dish) and introduced new administrative systems.