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Two centuries tick by on Dockyard clock

Published

5 years ago

2021/05/9

The Belfry Gate of the Trincomalee Naval Dockyard, a national architectural monument, is unknown to many. The once twin-towered belfry is now a single tower with its twin long gone. It has served as loyal timekeeper for sailors in the dockyard for 200 years and continues to do so

by Randima Attygalle

The strategically located natural deep water harbour in Trincomalee has been coveted by traders and colonists since ancient times. The earliest reference to this port of call once known as ‘Gokanna’ is found in Mahavamsa – the great chronicle of Sri Lanka. During the colonial days, Trincomalee or Trinco as it’s commonly called, was occupied by the Portuguese, Dutch, French and the British. The fort which was built by the Portuguese to keep rival sea faring nations at bay was expanded by the Dutch.

The British captured Trincomalee from the Dutch in 1795 during the Napoleonic Wars. Under the Treaty of Amiens of 1802, the Dutch ceded Ceylon to the British. H.A Colgate in his, The Royal Navy and Trincomalee- the history of their connection (The Ceylon Journal of Historical and Social Studies, Volume 1, Issue 1) documents that ‘in the days of sail, Trincomalee owed its importance to the variations of the monsoon, the prevailing winds in the Indian Ocean. A squadron defending India had to lie to the windward of the continent. It also required a safe harbour in which to shelter during the violent weather occasioned by the change of the monsoons in October and to a less extent in April. Only Trincomalee could fulfill these conditions. Thus its use was the key to the defence of India and the inestimably valuable British trade with India and China, which passed through the adjacent seas.’

The British used Trinco as an anchorage for Royal Navy ships in the Indian Ocean and when the steam powered ships were launched, the Royal Navy erected a coaling station to support bases throughout the British empire. Lieutenant Commander (Rtd) Somasiri Devendra, an authority on maritime archaeology, says that the Royal Navy constructed all its dockyard-related buildings along the coastline at the entrance to the port.

“The buildings were completed by 1812 and soon after this, the conclusion of the Napoleonic wars ended the threat to the Royal Navy from the French and the Dutch and the expansion of the dockyard was halted. Trincomalee became a backwater for most of the 19^th Century with its major role being that of a coaling station. Coal was stored in bulk on old ships at anchor known as coaling hulks.”

Devendra explains that all buildings within the dockyard premises were accessed through the gates popularly known as Belfry Gates. These with their twin towers were built by the British in 1821. Only one tower remains today. The exact reason for the demolition of the twin and when it was done is not established. It is presumed that one of the towers was demolished when roads were being widened for heavier traffic. “This must have been somewhere between the first and the second World Wars,” says Devendra.

Most of the civilian labour working for the Navy lived outside the dockyard and the bell possibly would have been rung to mark the time of opening and closing of the gate, he said.

“The large house near the dockyard gate known as as Belfry House in which I once lived is now two houses,” he recollects. The belfry gate stands where three roads meet, marked by a traffic light believed to be the first in the country. The lights that still work well were probably needed to manage and ensure the safety of numerous vehicles carrying building material, ammunition, artillery, spare parts, and sailors and soldiers who were busy fortifying the naval dockyard and attending to the needs of ships and craft anchored in the harbour.

“When I got my driving license, there was only one set of traffic lights in Colombo – at the Kollupitiya junction. So the Trinco traffic light is probably the first in the country,” says Devendra. He adds that one of the roads controlled by these lights goes uphill to the Dutch Fort Ostenburg where the Dockyard Signal Station was situated. “It’s a steep road through forest and made of concrete, supposedly the first such road built here.”

Those who served in the Dockyard remember the belfry very well. “Traditionally, when naval officers who long served there are transferred they’re presented a replica of this landmark for display in their homes to remember their time at the dockyard,” says Rear Admiral (Rtd) Niraja Attygalle who had served many years there during his naval career.

“Two hundred years is certainly a long period for a clock to tick giving the accurate time for men in white and men in overalls in workshops as well as for naval civilian workers in the dockyard. Also, the gear mechanism and electrical circuits of the traffic lights still work perfectly.”

The responsibility of maintaining both the belfry clock and traffic lights lie with the technical staff of the dockyard and their work needs to be appreciated, says Attygalle. “Even though the original bell has not rung for years to ensure its conservation, a smaller version has taken over that duty. The quartermaster of today’s Navy Dock, standing in the shadow of the belfry, announces the time by ringing the bell as done onboard on a man-o’-war,” he says.

Although unknown to many, the Naval Dockyard Belfry which marks its bicentennial this year (its exact date of unveiling is unknown) is an iconic landmark. “This unique structure reflecting British architecture during the occupation of the Dockyard by the Royal Navy must be acknowledged for its 200-year history as part and parcel of the Dockyard fraternity,” reflects Deputy Area Commander (East), Rear Admiral Anura Danapala. “Every single Naval Officer and sailor serving today and those who have retired will undoubtedly recall with sentimental pride, the unique service the belfry has rendered over two centuries.”

“The belfy had been the timekeeper for the naval fraternity in the dockyard and may it continue to serve for several more centuries,” says the officer.

(Pic credit: Somasiri Devendra, Niraja Attygalle)

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Life style

Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams receives prestigious five-Star certification from SLTDA

Published

1 day ago

2025/12/14

Thilina Walpola

(L-R) Roshan George - Hotel Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams; Sanjiv Hulugalle - CEO/General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams; Buddhika Hewawasam - Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority

Cinnamon Life that has re-defined Colombo’s skyline added another accolade to its journey as it officially received its five star certification placing it among the most distinguished luxury properties in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape.

Receiving the five star classification is a significant achievement for any hotel but Cinnamon Life – the flagship of Sri Lanka’s most ambitious integrated lifestyle development, the accolade carries exceptional meaning. The recognition follows a rigorous evaluation of service standards,facilities,and operational excellence,underscoring the property’s commitment to delivering world class guest experiences

– Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams has been officially awarded the esteemed Five-Star Certification by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), underscoring its status as a landmark in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape and a benchmark for excellence in the region.

As South Asia’s largest and first fully integrated resort, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams represents a transformative investment in Sri Lanka’s tourism and leisure economy. Developed by John Keells Holdings PLC with a historic USD 1.2 billion investment – the largest private development in the country – the resort has reshaped Colombo into a premier destination for luxury travel, entertainment, world-class events, and international business.

The team marks a major milestone with the property’s five star accreditation

A hallmark of the property is its extensive event and convention infrastructure, featuring over 160,000 sq. ft. of versatile, high-spec event space. With five signature ballrooms, cutting-edge technology, and three exceptional outdoor venues offering panoramic views of the ocean and the Colombo skyline, Cinnamon Life has established itself as an unrivalled hub for global conferences, high-profile celebrations, and corporate gatherings for both local and international travellers.

“We are deeply honoured to receive this Five-Star Certification from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority,” said Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams. “This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to world-class service, guest centric innovation, and the elevated experiences that define Cinnamon Life. Our aspiration is to set new standards for luxury, leisure, and MICE tourism in the region, while supporting Sri Lanka’s positioning on the global stage.”

The Five-Star Certification further cements Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams as one of Sri Lanka’s foremost luxury destinations. With its two luxury hotels, curated signature dining concepts, immersive entertainment arenas, and a vibrant retail and lifestyle precinct, the resort offers an unparalleled blend of hospitality, lifestyle, and experiences under one iconic address.

The certification was presented at Cinnamon Life, attended by senior leadership from SLTDA and Cinnamon Life, members of the hospitality industry, and media representatives. The event celebrated this milestone achievement and marked a significant step forward in elevating Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality offering.

About City of Dreams

City of Dreams is Sri Lanka’s largest and most ambitious integrated resort, redefining Colombo’s skyline as a symbol of modern luxury and innovation. Designed as a “city within a city,” the destination offers 800 luxury rooms and suites, with 687 at Cinnamon Life and 113 at NUWA, complemented by a diverse selection of 13 restaurants and bars that showcase global cuisines alongside Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage. Adding to its appeal is a vibrant mix of high-end retail, Sri Lanka’s premier entertainment arena, a shopping mall, office towers, and luxury residences. This integrated ecosystem enables delegates to stay, work, meet, dine, shop, and celebrate seamlessly under one roof, delivering unmatched convenience and engagement.

Life style

Championing mental health, rehabilitation, and social upliftment

Published

1 day ago

2025/12/14

Thilina Walpola

Directors of Tiesh and Stephanie

Tiesh jewellery , announced a meaningful partnership with the Infinite Grace Foundation Sri Lanka, an organisation dedicated to transforming lives through love, dignity, purpose, and long-term social impact.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone as two Sri Lankan entities join hands to address some of the country’s most urgent and overlooked challenges, including mental health, drug addiction, prisoner rehabilitation, anti-human trafficking awareness, and the empowerment of estate communities.

Founded on the belief that “Every life deserves to be seen and loved,” the Infinite Grace Foundation symbolises hope, transformation, and inclusion. The Foundation works to extend a lifeline to those often ignored or marginalised, ensuring they are reminded that they are valued, loved, and never alone.

Their vision is deeply aligned to create a Clean Sri Lanka—not only in its physical environment, but in its hearts, minds, and communities. Through systemic intervention, awareness, and rehabilitation, the organisation aims to restore dignity, provide second chances, and help individuals reclaim their potential.

Stephanie Siriwardhana, Founder of the Infinite Grace Foundation and Brand Ambassador for Pure Gold by Tiesh

As part of its awareness and empowerment initiatives, Infinite Grace Foundation has launched the “I See You” campaign—an effort to recognise, support, and uplift individuals who have long been overlooked. Through this campaign, the foundation aims to promote year-round advocacy, encompassing mental health support, panel discussions, and collaborations with organisations and hotlines that support vulnerable groups across the island.

In support of this meaningful initiative, Tiesh has designed an exclusive jewellery collection created with intention and purpose. All proceeds from the collection will be donated directly to the Infinite Grace Foundation. The range features intricately crafted earrings, pendants, chains, rings, and more for women, as well as bracelets, cufflinks, lapel pins, and rings for men. Offered in diamonds, as well as gold and silver, each piece carries a profound message—that every life deserves to be seen, acknowledged, and loved.

With a legacy spanning more than two decades, Tiesh founded by Lasantha and Bryony De Fonseka, has become synonymous with innovation, excellence, and artistry in Sri Lanka’s jewellery landscape. Today, the family-run business is led by the next generation, with Directors Ayesh De Fonseka and Thiyasha De Fonseka continuing to uphold the brand’s commitment to integrity, community, and craftsmanship.

Stephanie Siriwardhana, Founder of the Infinite Grace Foundation and Brand Ambassador for Pure Gold by Tiesh, expressed the impact of this partnership: “This collaboration is special in many ways, and I’m truly grateful that a prestigious jeweller like Tiesh cares about communities that are often unseen—such as prisoners and estate workers. When you change one life, you change a family. When families transform, communities transform, and soon you change the nation. This initiative comes from a personal place. Many people struggle to ask for help, including myself. Through the ‘I See You’ campaign, we aim to provide support, raise awareness, and offer year-round mental health programs, alongside organisations and hotlines that are equipped to help victims and individuals in need. This partnership with Tiesh will be deeply impactful.”

The work of the Infinite Grace Foundation spans multiple critical pillars, including prison reforms, addiction rehabilitation, community education, vocational training, anti-human trafficking awareness, and mental health destigmatisation—all designed to create long-term, sustainable change across Sri Lanka.

Reflecting on the significance of the collaboration, Director of Tiesh, Ayesh De Fonseka, added, “Helping the community is rooted in our beliefs and upbringing. This partnership presented a meaningful opportunity to give back and support an important cause. We believe in second chances, and many individuals need guidance, care, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. We are honoured to donate all profits from this collection. In the future, we hope to extend support further by offering job opportunities—whether in jewellery craftsmanship, box making, design, or other livelihood pathways.”

Through this partnership, Tiesh and Infinite Grace Foundation reaffirm their shared commitment to building a Sri Lanka where hope thrives, opportunities are equitable, and transformation is within reach for all.

For those wishing to support this initiative or explore the special collection, please visit the Tiesh showroom at 253 R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 03, or follow Tiesh on social media for updates and campaign information.

Life style

Tourist Board reassures: Sri Lanka safe, open and ready

Published

1 day ago

2025/12/14

Thilina Walpola

Deputy Minister of Tourism Professor, Ruwan Ekanayake with other hospitality partners in the tourist sector

Cyclone Ditwah carved a trail of devastation as it roared across many regions, unleashing a deluge that transformed the entire towns into destruction. This is one of the most unforgiving storms in recent years – bringing torrential rains, violent winds and a trail of destruction that left thousands displaced in a matter of hours. Homes swept away, roads disappeared and families were forced to flee.

Yet beneath the chaos and loss, a quiet resilience emerged, communities rallied, rescue teams worked around the clock to restore roads, relocate displaced families and ensure the safety of the tourists.

Now with waters slowly receding, the full story of Ditwah’s impact is only a beginning to unfold – a story of heartbreak, survival and the long road to rebuilding.

Cyclone Ditwah delivered a sharp blow to the tourism sector within hours and days, disrupting travel routes, damaging coastal routes, and forcing authorities to reassess visitor safety. as hoteliers,tour operators,and government agencies worked round the clock to stabilise operations.The industry soon reassured global travellers that the island remains open and resilient.Rescue teams were deployed immediately, working around the clock to evacuate families and restore essential services.

While several areas experienced significant damages, authorities assured that key tourism zones remain safe and operational.

A press conference was summoned by the Ministry of Tourism and Foreign affairs, last week bringing together top officials, media and other hospitality partners to address growing public concern,assure international travellers and outline the immediate steps taken to ensure safety across all tourist zones. The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe and Chairman of SLTPB, Buddhika Hewawasam stepped forward to present a clear,unified message that Sri Lanka remains safe, prepared and committed in protecting the visitors. They calmed anxieties,dispelled myths,rumours and dispelled misinformation and revealed the coordinated efforts of the government to keep the hospitality industry unshaken.

Tourism authorities pointed out even in the aftermath of Ditwah,the arrival of the cruise ship sent a powerful message. the ship’s docking underscored that Sri Lanka is safe . The arrival of this luxury cruise liner carrying hundreds of international passengers, was part of a regional voyage from Mumbai to Singapore. This was a symbolic moment unfolding at the harbour, it was a glimmer of hope in a week overshadowed by stormy clouds. The Tourism authorities reflected this arrival as a sign that confidence in Sri Lanka had not lost hope and showed Sri Lanka is steady,ready,and open.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe in a speech marked by confidence and determination said. “Our teams have worked round the clock to ensure safety, restore access routes and support our travellers”.

SLTPB Chairman, Buddhika Hewawasam

Today I assured every traveller Sri Lanka is safe, Sri Lanka is open, and Sri Lanka is ready. He confirmed that all major coastal resorts from Negombo to Bentota remain fully operational. Cultural destinations such as Kandy, Dambulla, Kandy,Sigiriya, are now open. He further noted that national parks,including Yala, Udawalawe,Wilpattu had returned operations following rapid assessments. Our key tourist zones are open,accessible and operating under verified safety conditions. He assured that every tourist in the island was safe,

He praised the rescue teams who had worked round the clock, cleaning roads, supporting displaced families and ensuring tourism infrastructure remained intact. To the world I say please come visit, and explore. Our island stands tall and more ready than ever to welcome you. This is not just recovery, he concluded,this is resilience in action. Finally he stressed that Sri Lanka’s tourism sector had demonstrated structural resilience,operational continuity and readiness to maintain international confidence.

The Chairman of the SLTPB Buddika Hewawasam also briefed the media on the ongoing relief operations. He acknowledged the sharp blow and destruction but underscored the country’s resilience. We want to assure travellers that Sri Lanka remains safe. Our teams are on the ground, our infrastructure is being restored and our hospitality sector stands ready to welcome visitors as recovery unfolds.

He said “New the waters have receded, and Sri Lanka is ready to welcome the world. Cyclone Ditwah swept through the island with devastating force, but in its aftermath, a story of resilience, beauty and unwavering hospitality has emerged – one that travellers are invited to witness firsthand”.

For travellers, this is a chance to experience a Sri Lanka that is vibrant and sparkling with life where cultural heritage, natural beauty and warm hospitality blend. Cyclone Ditwah may have left a mark, but it could not dim the island’s radiance.

The Tourism sector is preparing to move forward with renewed emphasis on resilience, safety and rebuilding confidence among international travellers. Sri Lanka has weathered the storm and the world is already sailing back to its shores.