Richmond Castle

What is this site?

Palatial 99-door Edwardian mansion incorporating Indian and British architectural motifs, imported Italian floor tiles, Scottish stained glass, and teak timber woodwork.

Why it matters

An architectural monument from the early 20th century, illustrating the wealth and craftsmanship of the native Ceylonese elite.

Description

Constructed between 1900 and 1910 on a 42-acre estate overlooking the Kalu Ganga by Mudaliyar Wijesinghe; bequeathed to the Public Trustee upon his death. Associated patrons (as supplied): Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe. Key features to look for: Elaborate hand-carved Burmese teak ceiling panels; Stained glass windows imported from Scotland depicting royal motifs; Grand exterior portico and classical marble balustrades; Riverside estate parklands and landscaped courtyard gardens.

Photos

Historical and scholarly sources

1. Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Gazetted Protected Architectural Monument

Visiting responsibly

Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes and hats where requested, never climb on monuments or pose with your back to Buddha images, and follow guidance from custodians and the Department of Archaeology.

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