Wolvendaal Church (Wolvendaalse Kerk) is a remarkable Dutch Colonial-era building located in the Pettah neighborhood of Colombo. In 1736, Governor Gustaaf Willem van Imhoff sought approval from the Dutch East India Company (VOC) to demolish the existing church (Kasteel Kerk) within Colombo Fort and construct a new one on the same site. The VOC initially refused, but Governor Julius Valentyn Stein van Gollenesse resolved the impasse. The new church was erected beyond the city walls in an area known as Wolvendaal (Wolf's Dale or Wolf's Valley). The site was chosen for its commanding views across the town, proximity to the entrance, and historical significance. Constructed in the Doric style, the church forms a Greek cross with walls nearly 1.5 meters (five feet) thick. It is made of large kabok (clay ironstone) mixed with coral and lime plaster. The high roof resembles a dome and was originally arched with brick, covered in blue Bangor slate roof tiles. Atop the dome stood a brazen lion symbolizing the seven united provinces of the Dutch Republic. Unfortunately, in 1856, lightning destroyed the lion and damaged the dome. Completed on March 6, 1757, the Wolvendaal Church remains one of the oldest Protestant churches still in use in Sri Lanka.
Ella Uda Ella, also known as Kahana Ella, is a picturesque waterfall located in Avissawella. It draws its water from the Kodikande Mountain and the Koswatte Canal network, which flow through rock-lined valleys. The water cascades dramatically from a cliff, creating a mesmerizing sight. Interestingly, the local mahseer fish (Tor khudree) thrives in these waters.
The General Post Office building was built in 1895 opposite the Governor’s residence at the King’s House (currently the President’s House), on King’s Street (currently the Janadhipath Mawatha). This Edwardian style building housed the GPO until recently, when it was moved for security reasons. A new GPO building was built for the Sri Lanka Post. The original building on Queen’s Street was built by Arasi Marikar Wapchi Marikar 1829-1925, who was also involved in building the Colombo Museum, Colombo Customs, Old Town Hall in Pettah, the Galle Face Hotel, Victoria Arcade, Finlay Moir building, the Clock Tower, Batternburg Battery etc
Kechimalai Mosque is located at the end of the Port of Beruwala on a rocky surface. This mosque is believed to be built in the 1024AD by the Muslim community of the area as a place worship. The building has followed the architectural style of the Middle East. With a history dating back to several generations, Kechimalai Mosque is believed to be the place where a vessel came ashore with a family of royals who initiated the local community.
