Abstract:
Instead of viewing history only as a collection of narratives, comprehend that the stone pillars and brick
walls stand as silent witnesses, to transforming the past into evidence-based truths. In this context, the
primary objective of this study is to document the constructions established during the British colonial
period (1802–1948) in the Batticaloa district and their historical significance and to study the socio
economic changes followed through these buildings, based on colonial-era reports. It indicates the local
natural resources and the labour skills of the past. These architectural works serve as historical
documents that explain the socio-economic transitions of that era. To ensure their administrative
convenience and security in Sri Lanka, the British rulers constructed several buildings by adopting
Neoclassical, Victorian, Gothic and Renaissance styles. These structures are characterized by unique
features such as thick walls, arched doorways, high ceilings, and spacious verandas. These structures
remain in use today with minor renovations, which affirm to their architectural durability. This research
is conducted as a descriptive study using a historical approach. Primary data were collected and analyzed
from British-era administrative reports and other archival documents. According to the findings, Britishera constructions in Batticaloa can be categorized into various types, including rest houses, schools,
places of worship, hospitals, lighthouses, courthouses, irrigation structures, and post offices. However
most of the buildings in the rural areas have ruined nowdays without maintanace. This study documents
the architectural heritage of Batticaloa and clarifies how the constructions of British-era, laid the
foundation for the district's economic development and shifts in social structure. In a context where
systematic documentation remains incomplete, the significance of this paper is, uncovering these
historical traces through colonial report.
