The name Colombo, first introduced by the Portuguese in 1505, was derived from the classical Sinhalese name Kolon thota, meaning "port on the river Kelani". It has also been suggested that the name may be derived from the Sinhalese name Kola-amba-thota which means "harbor with leafy mango trees".
Due to its large natural harbour and its strategic position along the East-West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders since more than 2,000 years ago. However it was only made the capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815,[5] and its status as capital was retained when the nation received independence in 1948. In 1978, when administrative functions were moved to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Colombo was designated as the commercial capital of Sri Lanka.
Like many cities, Colombo's urban area extends well beyond the boundaries of a single local authority, encompassing other Municipal and Urban Councils. The main city is home to a majority of the Sri Lanka's corporate offices, restaurants and entertainment venues.[4] Famous landmarks in Colombo include The Galle Face Green, the Viharamahadevi Park as well as the National Museum.
Posts
2 comments:
behold the all new http://www.zoomsrilanka.com Zoom Sri Lanka is a website which promotes Sri Lanka as a destination. The
site carries content on Sri Lanka, ranging from main destinations in Sri Lanka, to things to do in Sri Lanka, Where to stay in Sri Lanka and Things to See in Sri Lanka. The site also provides you with an interactive and dynamic map, which will navigate you through the main cities in the country.
You will also be able to book your hotels and accommodation in Sri Lanka as well as plan your itinerary for your stay in Sri Lanka, through this website.
Post a Comment