Maligathanna Walawwa

 Maligathanna Walawwa

This manor is located in the historic Aththanagalla area, on land believed since ancient times to be the site of King Sirisangabo’s palace. Keeping this historical legend in mind, this magnificent and solidly built structure reconstructed in the Gampaha District became highly popular among the local people under the name Maligathanna Walawwa.

During the colonial era, Maligathanna Walawwa stood on a property exceeding 900 acres. In the past, members of this proud family generously donated large portions of their lands for national, religious, and community purposes.

The residents of Naiwala Walawwa in Naiwala and Batadola Walawwa in Nittambuwa are believed to be relatives of Māligāthanna Walawwa. While Naiwala Walawwa has deteriorated due to neglect, Maligathanna Walawwa still stands in splendid condition. This durability is mainly due to the advanced architectural techniques used in its construction. For example, many of its windows are made of a rare and high-quality type of wood known as “Mal Madara”, which is believed in folklore to have been brought to earth by the gods. The species has now become extinct due to deforestation and cannot be found today. Windows made from Mal Madara wood are considered superior among all wooden fixtures and furniture.

Architectural historians and experts believe that buildings made with Mal Madara wood can only be found in the palace of King Parakramabahu the Great. Currently, only about 178 perches of land remain surrounding the Walawwa. It is enclosed by a protective wall made of laterite (kabok) stone, about 14–15 feet high, and has two entrance gateways. Built in traditional architectural style, it includes a security room, a resting room for drivers or attendants, and a parking area.

The staircase leading to the main building has been constructed using specialized architectural techniques. On either side of the building are two rooms, currently used as offices. The main entrance is fitted with two large door frames, adorned with a series of small brass-curved windows created using an advanced brass-crafting technique. This grand room now serves as the guest room. To the right of the hall lies a spacious chamber resembling a palace room. On the left, there is a similar room and a beautifully crafted wooden staircase leading to the upper floor.

In the past, a balcony was built to enjoy the surrounding views. This balcony was also used by the Walawwa’s residents to observe the tasks performed by their workers.

All woodwork in the Walawwa has been meticulously crafted using high-quality timber. The upper-floor roof structure, exemplifying the brilliance of its design, has been constructed following accurate and auspicious architectural guidelines and principles.

On the ground floor, upon entering the main hall, there is an inner courtyard surrounded by several rooms, including bathrooms, for family use. This courtyard was designed to enhance airflow and natural sunlight within the house.

The second courtyard includes a library room on the right, with enough space to accommodate 50–100 people. Entering from the southern side of the building, one encounters a small dining area of about 2,000 square feet adjoining the kitchen. This space was used to enjoy the beauty of the open surroundings. Beyond that, there are servant quarters and a large storage room, with one side bordered by a laterite (kabok) wall.

The roof is entirely made of jackwood, while the tiles were imported from India. A dining hall and meeting room have been constructed using premium timber. All surrounding walls are made with special wood, and the tall roof helps regulate interior temperature. These wooden structures enhance the antique and majestic character of the Walawwa, which also houses a valuable collection of old paintings and both brass and clay statues.

All the ancient furniture is finely crafted from exceptional wood. Māligāthanna Walawwa is considered a dignified and blessed residence, fit even for state leaders.