Wolvendaal Church Tourism

Type of destination: Historic Site

Ideal visit duration: 1-2 hours

Wolvendaal Church is one of the most significant remnants of Dutch colonial rule in Sri Lanka, located in the bustling metropolis of Colombo. Constructed in 1749 by the Dutch United East India Company, it stands atop Wolvendaal Hill, offering a panoramic view of the city. The church is renowned for its unique architectural style, reflecting a blend of Dutch ecclesiastical design with local influences. Its imposing edifice is made of solidly built rough-hewn granite blocks, and the roof is covered with Dutch tiles. The interior is equally impressive, housing an ornately carved wooden pulpit, traditional Dutch furniture and an array of tombstones, some of which are embedded into the floor, commemorating esteemed Dutch governors and other luminaries of the era. Wolvendaal Church also possesses an antique organ, though now silent, echoes the rich musical heritage it once showcased. As a place of historical significance, it not only serves as an active house of worship but also attracts history enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world who come to admire its storied past and architectural grandeur.

Top 5 Reviews on Wolvendaal Church

LolaGo1

Wrote on 9th Mar, 2024

Appeared to be closed for renovations

This was the last attraction we visited in our tuktuk tour. There are lots of construnction materials around it and my tuktuk driver informed me that it is closed for renovation. From the poor condit..

WanderingMoments

Wrote on 28th Mar, 2023

Wonderful

An absolute gem for anyone interested in history. It was the highlight of our day! Shockingly bad form of the government to let this incredible historical building and graves fall to ruin.

JenniferCameron

Wrote on 6th Dec, 2019

Beautiful !

We wished to visit Wolvendaal Church three years ago for the first time we visited Sri Lanka. Finally, we were able to come and see here. The place is so iconic and belongs to the dutch period in Sri ..

vagabondginger

Wrote on 17th Jun, 2019

Old Dutch Colonial Bldg

It's the oldest Protestant Church in the country dating back to 1749. The wooden pulpit showed true craftsmanship and the stone floor has many gravestones of long forgotten governors. It has been cont..

pshurd

Wrote on 4th May, 2019

The building is in need of some TLC!

This historic building is in need of a coat of paint at the very least - it's a bit dilapidated. Didn't get to see the inside, it was Sunday & there was a service going on.

Wolvendaal Church Tourism

Wolvendaal Church Tourism

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