Colombo Dutch Museum
Museo holandés de Colombo
Colombo Dutch Museum (Prince Street, Colombo) — The building was constructed during the Dutch occupation of Colombo from 1656 to 1796. It was the former residence of the Dutch Governor Thomas van Rhee. The building was a teacher training college and an institute to instruct clergymen between 1696 and 1796. It was the residence of Colonel Count August Carl Fredrick Von Ranzow from 1759 to 1844. It also served as an orphanage under the supervision of the deacons, financed by the Dutch East Indies Company. It was also used as a hospital. It became the barracks during the second half of the 1800s and in 1900 it was converted to a police training school, set up by the British. In 1932 it was made the Pettah Post Office. In 1971, following heavy monsoon rains, one of the exterior walls collapsed and the building had to be abandoned.
Opened to the public in 1982, this museum embodies the unique architectural features of a colonial Dutch town house — showcasing the Dutch legacy with various artifacts, including furniture, ceramics, coins and weaponry and portrays various facets of contemporary life and culture. Admission: Rs. 500 (adult tourist), Rs. 300 (child tourist), Rs. 20 (local adult), Rs. 10 (local child). Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (daily, except Sunday, Monday and public holidays).