DUTCH HOSPITAL SHOPPING PRECINCT

This former hospital, which dates from the 17th century, was completely renovated in 2012. Built by the Dutch to treat their officers and sailors passing through the port, it is a long rectangular building, lined with arcades, with a low roof. The sick slept on mats laid on the floor and those who were really unwell were given a mattress. After the departure of the Dutch, the building was used for other purposes, including the Colombo Apothecaries' Association and a police station. It was severely damaged by a Tamil Tiger attack in 1996, before being restored and transformed into a shopping mall & dining precinct in 2011. This compound, which is open to the public, has preserved the charm of its colonial architecture and is now home to some fifteen restaurants (including the famous Ministry of Crab, the Black Pepper and the Curry Leaf), trendy bars, cafés, tea rooms, as well as trendy shops and boutiques spread over the two beautiful inner courtyards. Musicians and artists frequently perform here, much to the delight of onlookers and customers sitting on the terraces. Several hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs are located in the area, which has helped to breathe new life into the neighbourhood. The Dutch Hospital has become a popular place for tourists and the young population of Colombo.