Slave Island

For the episode of the 1992 animated television series X-Men of the same name, see Slave Island (X-Men).
Slave Island

කොම්පඤ්ඤ වීදිය

கொம்பனித்தெரு
Suburb

Beira Lake and Slave Island
Slave Island
Coordinates: 6°55′37″N 79°50′55″E / 6.92694°N 79.84861°E / 6.92694; 79.84861Coordinates: 6°55′37″N 79°50′55″E / 6.92694°N 79.84861°E / 6.92694; 79.84861
Country Sri Lanka
Province Western Province
District Colombo District
Time zone Sri Lanka Standard Time Zone (UTC+5:30)
Postal Code 00200

Slave Island is a suburb in Colombo, Sri Lanka located directly south of the Fort area of Colombo. The name Slave Island was given during the period of British occupation and administration, and refers to the situation under Portuguese and Dutch administration when slaves were held there, most of them from Africa. Most of the slaves later returned to Africa. However, a very small group of African descendants are scattered throughout Sri Lanka and are collectively known as Sri Lankan Kaffirs. The suburb contains Beira Lake, a large lake and its esplanade is visited by many for recreation. Slave Island is mostly a commercial area with hotels and shopping centres.

Demographic

Slave Island is a multicultural area. The larger ethnic communities in Slave Island are the Sri Lankan Moors and Sinhalese. There are also various minorities such as Burghers, Malays and others. Religions include Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and various other religions and beliefs.

Infrastructure

Slave Island is served by the Slave Island Railway Station. Built with Victorian-era architectural embellishments, the station carries significant architectural and historic value. The building features stylish arches, intricate woodwork, and metal installations, which emphasize Victorian-era styles.[1]

Military

Diplomatic missions

Photos

References

  1. "Protecting historic Slave Island Railway Station". Community/Livelihood Development. John Keells Group. Retrieved 2012-01-06.


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