Wolvendaal Church
Colombo, Western
Built by the Dutch in 1749, Wolvendaal Church is the oldest Dutch-era church in Sri Lanka still in continuous use, its name meaning "wolf's dale" after the jackals that reportedly roamed the area when it was first built outside the old city walls. Its thick coral-and-limestone walls and simple cruciform layout are typical of Dutch colonial architecture of the period, and the churchyard holds tombstones and memorials to several Dutch colonial governors and officials. It is still in use today, a rare example of a centuries-old building still serving its original purpose rather than preserved purely as a monument.
Best time to visit
Weekday afternoons, when the building is open for visitors but not in use for services.
Visitor tip
Check visiting arrangements because the building is still in regular use.
Local pick
Look for the carved Dutch coats of arms and memorial slabs set into the floor near the altar — several colonial governors are buried directly beneath the church.
Quick answers
Where is Wolvendaal Church?
Wolvendaal Church is in Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Wolvendaal Church?
Weekday afternoons, when the building is open for visitors but not in use for services.
How far is Wolvendaal Church from Colombo?
About 2 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.
What is near Wolvendaal Church?
Nearby places include Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque) (about 1 km away), Pettah Floating Market (about 1 km away), Pettah Market (about 2 km away), Colombo Lotus Tower (about 2 km away).
Add to my itineraryNearby places
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)Western Province
- Pettah Floating MarketColombo
- Pettah MarketWestern Province
- Colombo Lotus TowerWestern Province
More places in Western Province
More to see around Colombo: things to do in Colombo. Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.