Jaffna Clock Tower
Description
The Jaffna Clock Tower stands proudly in the heart of Jaffna, a testament to its rich history and an enduring symbol of cultural significance in northern Sri Lanka. This iconic structure, built to commemorate the visit of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, to Ceylon in 1875, has become one of the city's defining landmarks.
1875, upon announcing the Prince of Wales' impending visit to Ceylon, the Jaffna Prince of Wales Reception Committee rallied together, successfully raising over Rs. 10,000 for the Jaffna Prince of Wales Reception Fund. A silver casket and jewels were purchased with the funds and presented to the Prince of Wales in Colombo on December 1, 1875. The remaining balance of Rs. 6,000 was earmarked to construct a lasting memorial to commemorate the Prince's visit.
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In a historic meeting held on July 1, 1880, at the Jaffna Kachcheri, it was decided to utilize the fund to build a clock tower on the Jaffna esplanade. Additional contributions from the local community, amounting to Rs. 4,000, further supported the tower's construction. Government architect James Smither designed the building, and the clock was a generous donation from Governor James Longden, with the clock bell bearing 1882.
Unfortunately, the tower faced significant damage in the late 1980s due to the civil war. However, the resilient spirit of the monument found support when Charles, Prince of Wales, visited Sri Lanka in 1998. During his visit, he offered British assistance in restoring the tower, and the British government, in turn, contributed Rs. 1 million to the cause. This marked the beginning of a meticulous restoration process.
The renovated Jaffna Clock Tower was unveiled again on June 19, 2002, in a ceremony graced by British High Commissioner Linda Duffield. Today, the tower stands as a timepiece and a symbol of resilience, restoration, and the enduring connection between Sri Lanka and the British monarchy. As its hands continue to mark the passage of time, the Jaffna Clock Tower remains a timeless tribute to history, inviting locals and visitors to witness the confluence of past and present in this vibrant city.
