Maduwanwela Walawwa

Maduwanwela Walawwa is a historic mansion located in the Ratnapura District of Sri Lanka, situated between Embilipitiya and Rakwana. It is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance, reflecting the lifestyle of the aristocratic Maduwanwela family during the colonial era.

History and Construction:

• Origins: The Walawwa was built in the 1700s by Maduwanwela Maha Mohottala during the reign of King Wimaladharmasuriya II (1687-1707 AD)26.

• Expansion: It underwent significant expansions until 1905, when Maduwanwela Maha Disawe, the last provincial ruler of Maduwanwela, oversaw its final enlargement12.

• Land and Estates: The Walawwa was part of an extensive estate of over 82,000 acres, gifted by Sinhalese kings for the family’s services45.

Architecture and Features:

• Rooms and Gardens: At its peak, the mansion had 121 rooms and 21 inner courtyards (mada midulas). Today, only about 40 to 47 rooms remain, along with a few inner gardens145.

• Courthouse: The attached courthouse is a notable feature, retaining its original furnishings and equipment used for legal proceedings12.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• Museum and Preservation: After the death of Maduwanwela Maha Disawe, the property was transferred to Sir Francis Molamure and later to the state in 1974. It is now managed by the Department of Archaeology as a museum12.

• Legacy: The Walawwa serves as a testament to Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage and offers insights into the lives of its former occupants through artifacts and historical documents13.

Location and Accessibility:

• Location: Situated on the Embilipitiya-Suriyakanda road, approximately 207 km from Colombo23.

• Accessibility: Visitors can reach the site via a scenic drive from major towns like Embilipitiya and Rakwana.