The land of Sri Lanka is surrounded and protected by the glamorous Indian Ocean and is also famously known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”. Sri Lanka’s history is beautifully intertwined with the ocean and we have centuries of history to boast about! When in Sri Lanka, it is a must to experience the beautiful beaches and other maritime intricacies as well to explore the rich and vibrant history of Sri Lanka. The best way to do both at once? The Maritime and Naval History Museum Trincomalee.
Photo Credit : @ceylon_gram
The Maritime and Naval History Museum was established in the year 2013 and is located close to Fort Frederick, this is where the Dutch first landed on the island in the late 16th century and began their rule of the country. This museum is one of the most famous Trincomalee tourist places and should be on top of your list of things to see in Trincomalee. The beautiful colonial building housing the museum was the former residence of the Dutch Naval Commissioner from 1602 to 1795 and from 1795 to 1948 had been used as the Urban Commissioner’s residence. The building was severely damaged during the civil war but has now been renovated and restored to its former majestic state, making it a must-see place in Sri Lanka.
Photo Credit : @the_chrishan_
A tour of the museum will allow you to gain insights into Sri Lankan maritime history, marine biodiversity, and information on the history of the local naval affairs. The museum building is in two floors, each floor containing its own specialties. The ground floor contains displays covering Sri Lankan naval history dating back to times of Marco Polo and includes a video documentary as well. The first floor contains artefacts which shed light on the marine ecosystem with particular emphasis on the flora and fauna of the east coast. The museum also houses exhibits of various corals, mangroves, sea grasses and marine mammals. It is most definitely worth a visit!
Artifact – A stencil machine from 1800s which was installed in a ship
Photo Credits : @che_amarey_guney
The museum is open to tourists and visitors every day, except Tuesdays, from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. Entrance to the museum is absolutely free! The museum is situated 2.5 km away from the Trincomalee Train Station and around 7 minutes away from Trinco Blu by Cinnamon. You can make your way to this must-see museum while you stay with us in comfort and luxury! Book your stay with us and let us make your stay in Trincomalee all the more memorable and awesome!
Author – Shenella Fonseka
