A Culture Trip Around Little Rome

Scattered around Negombo are a myriad of historical attractions that allow one to delve into the city’s eventful past. Negombo is a prime spot for culture trippers, especially those who are fascinated by Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Here’s a list of places you can best experience the city’s culture.

Places of Worship

The city is just one of a number of places in the country where you can witness the harmonious coexistence of all faiths. This is best showcased by the many religious places of worship located in close proximity to one another.

The Buddhist temple known as the Angurukaramulla Temple has a history that dates back more than 300 years and has many intricate murals depicting Lord Buddha’s life. Make sure to dress conservatively to enter the complex. The neo-classical St. Mary’s Church, along with several other churches dotted around the town, are testament to Negombo’s nickname ‘Little Rome’ and large Catholic community. Moreover, the mosques and the Hindu kovils in the heart of the town further display the city’s religious and cultural diversity.

Colonial Monuments

As a key naval stronghold for the European colonisers, especially the Portuguese and Dutch Empires during the 16th and 17th centuries, Negombo has a number of colonial era monuments such as old churches, a fortress, and the Hamilton Canal.