Independence Memorial Hall The monument marking an end of a chapter and beginning of a new one

Situated at the heart of Cinnamon Garden, stands an imposing building reminding us a major milestone in the history of our motherland. It is none other than the Independence Memorial Hall and this majestic stone edifice commemorates Sri Lanka gaining its independence from the British Empire in 1948. In the early days this place was also known as Torrington Square.

This is the exact location where Prince Henry, the Duke of Gloucester, opened Sri Lanka’s first parliament on a special podium, bringing an end to almost five centuries of colonial rule and marking the beginning of Sri Lanka’s self-rule. Originally, the Independence Memorial Hall hosted important diplomatic guests and ceremonial assemblies of the two houses of the Parliament.

Every architectural square inch of this monument is designed with lavish symbols of the island’s rich history and political freedom. At the entrance of the monument, there is an imposing statue of the first prime minister of the country Rt. Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake “The Father of the Nation” surrounded by four stone lions with protruding eyes. These feral guardians were recreated from the lion statues of the 13th century Yapahuwa kingdom.

The most prominent feature of the monument, the assembly hall, was inspired by the “Magul Maduwa,” the royal court of the King of Kandy, the last kingdom on the island. Incidentally, it was at the Magul Maduwa that the Kandyan chieftains handed over the island’s sovereignty to the British throne in 1815. The column and pillars are decorated with traditional Sri Lankan designs and statues of lions are placed around the building.

The exterior of the assembly hall is decorated with “Punkalasas,” pots of plenty, which signify wealth and prosperity. The interior of the hall is supported by 60 pillars adorned with famous Embekke wood carvings from the 14th century Gampola kingdom.

These extravagant symbolisms came at the request of Premier Senanayaka, who commissioned the building and wanted a monument “worthy of this country’s long and impressive history.” Some of Sri Lanka’s most prominent architects labored over a number of sketches before the scrupulous premier granted his approval, making the Independence Memorial Hall one of the most meticulously designed buildings in the Colombo metropolis.

Most of the annual National Independence Day celebrations have been held here. Apart from a monument it served as the ceremonial assembly hall for the Senate of Ceylon and the House of Representatives of Ceylon until the parliament was moved to the new parliament complex.

Nowadays, the Independence Memorial Hall is mostly popular as a recreational venue for joggers, strolling couples, students from the nearby university and families looking for a refreshing reprieve from the urban mess of Colombo and it is also the venue for religious events and annual national day celebrations.

There is a basement museum that most visitors to the Independence Memorial Hall miss out. It features fascinating exhibits showcasing Sri Lanka’s colonial history and independence struggle. The museum also has illuminating cultural exhibits demonstrating Sri Lanka’s ancient literature and arts.

The Independence Memorial Hall is the ideal choice for those seeking a quick, relaxing getaway in the city. There are no entrance fees or stifling crowds; just the serenity and elegance of this historic monument.