A mansion that was formerly the property of Don Arthur De Silva that was built in the early 19th century still stands tall in the 21st century as a major historical site which is now open to the public. Entrance tickets are available for purchase, and there are people who will give you a full tour of the castle.
Don Arthur De Silva (1889-1947) was a wealthy landowner and philanthropist of his time, and the son of a very influential and wealthy planter. He completed his education in Britain and on the way back to his mother land stopped in India where he came across his school friend and was inspired by the Maharaja of Ramnad, Raja Sethupathi’s Palace, and was consequently challenged to replicate it because he was told he wouldn’t be able to. He hired two good local architects and the rest was history.
It is a grand castle more than 100 years old that resembles a British colonial castle with exquisite architecture. An effortless blend of South East Asian and European architecture was designed; it summarizes four distinct styles of architecture – Indian royal, the central courtyard tradition, roman Dutch as well as a slight Greek resemblance. It is on a vast land of 42 acres, and is a two-storeyed Edwardian building with an impressive amount of 99 doors and 34 windows ornate with delicate glass panes that depict grape vines. The materials used to build the castle were imported from Burma and Italy and many other countries all over the world. The gardens on the land are luscious and plentiful with local plantation that includes the likes of mango, coconut, and guava. Today it is a reminiscent reminder of the grand time people had back in the good old days.
