Fort Landmarks.

Fort and Pettah are our favorite parts of the city.
To help people re-familiarize themselves with Colombo’s long-neglected center we’ll be posting a selection of the area’s major landamarks.

Here are two beautiful buildings that could do with being remembered.

Cargills Milllers Building
York Street

This is one of the Fort’s major landmarks. On the corner of York Street and Prince’s Street the distinctive deep red structure with its columned arcade and elaborate plasterwork was built in 1906.  For decades it served as Colombo’s pre-eminent department store stocking everything from beluga caviar and the finest European cheese to Chinese Fireworks and Japanese toys. Just about every Colombar grandparent paid several visits to this enormous emporium in its heyday. Even this fine premise though wilted away during the war. While the Cargills chain flourished what should have been their flagship housed nothing but an under-stocked supermarket and a KFC. New plans however will see the building become a Raffles(of Singapore fame) Hotel.  The Cargills and Raffles groups have apparently reached an agreement though no plans on the number of rooms, completion date or the extent of the investment are yet available.

YMBA
Sir Baron Jayathilake Mawatha

That’s right not the YMCA, that’s next door, but the Young Men’s Buddhist Association. In a bold and unique neo-Lankan concrete-modernist style with a beautiful  Art-Deco staircase and a Kandyan roofed observatory this is one of the most striking buildings in Fort. While the Buddhist Association still functions much of the building currently houses shipping and customs clearing agent’s offices. A hastily converted corner office with amazing port and Fort views goes for just Rs 9000 a month!. This is one the few buildings in Fort that is entirely open to the public, just wander in and head up the staircase to reach the observatory section.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Iftar Buffet Round Up 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya As Ramadan arrives, a warm feeling of reflection and community fills

Highlights Kamu

Discovering Pasta Paradise: The Pasta Factory, Galle Fort

In the historic Galle Fort, The Pasta Factory brings a taste of Italy to Sri

Highlights Kamu

A Home for Desi Dreams – Bombay Nights by Radisson Colombo

As we stepped into the ‘Dine’ in Radisson Colombo, our senses were immediately tantalized by

Highlights Kamu

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Dampa Seafood: Where seafood dreams come true!

Are you ready for a culinary journey that captures the essence of the ocean? Look

Highlights Kamu

An unforgettable brunch celebration at Harbour Court, The Kingsbury.

The Ambience From the hotel entrance to our designated seat, a vibrant atmosphere resonated with

Highlights Kamu

Trending.

“85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim” by SLASU held at the Mount Lavinia Hotel Beach

The "85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim" organized by Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union

Trending

Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International

Trending

Anantara Kalutara Presents an Elevated Gastronomic Journey to Italy

Kalutara, Sri Lanka - March 14, 2024 - Anantara Kalutara Resort is delighted to announce

Trending

List of Party Venues 2024

By Fathima Rukaiya Finding the perfect place to host a party can be a hassle.

Highlights Trending

LCY Unveils Debut ‘LCY for Her’ Collection, Redefining Women’s Polo Wear with Strength, and Sophistication

Thursday, 14, March, 2024, Colombo: LCY, a brand synonymous with manufacturing high-quality men’s polos of

Trending

Royal Turf Club Nuwara Eliya Sports Tourism Race Day 2024 Colombo

The Royal Turf Club Nuwara Eliya held its first race for the year on 24th

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Him

By Fathima Rukaiya Are you trying to find the perfect way to show your special

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

Written by Fathima Rukaiya The season of love is upon us once more, and opinions

Highlights Yamu Guide

Romantic Dinner and High Tea date spots for Valentine’s Day  2024

Written by Shamrina C 1. Via Torino Indulge in a fine dining exclusive 3-Course meal

Highlights Yamu Guide

BYOB Bliss: 16 Places to you can Bring Your Own Bottle!

Written by Shamrina C 1. Giovannis Indulge in Italian flavors, grooving music, pet friendly, and

Highlights Yamu Guide

Unveiling Ramada’s Festive Christmas High Tea Extravaganza!

Written by Shamrina C Mark your calendars for the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of December,

Highlights Yamu Guide