St. Peter's Church, Colombo

St. Peter’s Church is an Anglican church of the Church of Ceylon, and it feels different from many purpose-built churches because it was not originally built as one. The site first held a Portuguese Dominican monastery (around 1627). Later, under the Dutch, it was used as a residence and banquet hall. In 1804, the British converted the building into a Garrison Church, serving soldiers and people connected to the port.

From the outside, the building still resembles a colonial government structure, reflecting its earlier use. Inside, the space is quiet and church-like, with plaques and tombstones that record the names and ranks of British residents from the colonial period. A notable feature is the old manual ceiling punkah, showing how the interior was cooled before electric fans.

The church was consecrated as St. Peter’s in 1821 by the Bishop of Calcutta. Today it remains a working place of worship, with services on Sundays and special Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Because of its historic link to the harbor, it has also served seafarers and the maritime community. Visitors are welcome outside service times, but should dress modestly, keep voices low, and move respectfully, as people may be praying.