Pettah Collection

Asia, Sri Lanka, Colombo, City Centre skyline; downtown & Port City district, Colombo Lotus Tower; buildings in Pettah & Fort, docks & lagoon

Scene in the "Pettah"or Native Quarter (b / w photo)
3652808 Scene in the " Pettah" or Native Quarter (b/w photo) by English Photographer, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Scene in the " Pettah" or Native Quarter)

Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka (colour photo)
3093697 Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka (colour photo) by English Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka)

Hindoo Temple in "Pettah, "Colombo (b / w photo)
3652810 Hindoo Temple in " Pettah, " Colombo (b/w photo) by English Photographer, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Hindoo Temple in " Pettah, " Colombo)

A Street Scene, Pettah, Colombo, Ceylon, c. 1900-20 (hand-coloured photograph)
3474161 A Street Scene, Pettah, Colombo, Ceylon, c.1900-20 (hand-coloured photograph) by PlAtA©, Ltd. Ceylon (fl.1900-20); Royal Society for Asian Affairs, London

A Hindu Temple, Pettah, Colombo, c1890, (1910). Artist: Alfred William Amandus Plate
A Hindu Temple, Pettah, Colombo, c1890, (1910). From The Hundred Best Views of Ceylon. [Plate Ltd, Colombo, Kandy & Nuwara Eliya, 1910]

View Towards the Pettah or Native Quarter, Colombo, Showing Khan Clock Tower, c1890, (1910). From The Hundred Best Views of Ceylon. [Plate Ltd, Colombo, Kandy & Nuwara Eliya, 1910]

Hindu temple in the Pettah, Colombo, Ceylon. View in the capital of what is now Sri Lanka

4th Cross Street, Pettah, Colombo, Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
Street scene, 4th Cross Street, Pettah, Colombo, Ceylon (Sri Lanka), with merchant stores and bullock-drawn carts. Date: circa 1910

Street scene, Pettah, Colombo, Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
Street scene, Pettah, native district of Colombo, Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Date: circa 1920

The Pettah or Native Town - Colombo, Sri Lanka Date: circa 1910s

Street Scene - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Street Scene - Pettah, a neighbourhood in Colombo, Sri Lanka located east of the City centre Fort. The Pettah neighbourhood is famous for its open air bazaars and markets. Date: circa 1905

Sri Lanka - Main Street at Pettah with local shops Date: 1932

Busy street in the Fort Pettah area, Colombo, Sri Lanka, Asia

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"Pettah: A Vibrant Tapestry of Culture and History in Colombo, Sri Lanka" Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of Pettah, located in the heart of Colombo, Ceylon (now known as Sri Lanka). As you wander through its vibrant lanes, you'll discover a rich tapestry of sights and sounds that truly capture the essence of this historic neighborhood. One notable landmark is the Red Masjid, an architectural gem that stands proudly amidst the chaos. Its striking red facade adds a touch of grandeur to Pettah's skyline and serves as a symbol of religious diversity within this multicultural city. As you stroll along 4th Cross Street, prepare to be transported back in time with black-and-white photographs showcasing scenes from Pettah's past. These captivating images offer glimpses into daily life within this native quarter - merchants haggling over goods, locals going about their daily routines - all frozen in time. But don't let these monochrome snapshots fool you; Pettah bursts with color too. In a hand-colored photograph from c. 1900-20, we witness a lively street scene filled with vibrant textiles and produce stalls. The energy is palpable as people go about their business against a backdrop adorned with intricate Hindu temples. Speaking of temples, another must-visit spot is the Hindoo Temple nestled within Pettah's maze-like streets. This sacred place exudes tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle outside its walls. Step inside to experience moments of serenity while marveling at its ornate architecture. For panoramic views encompassing both history and modernity, head towards Khan Clock Tower which overlooks Pettah's native quarter. Gaze upon this iconic structure while taking in the fusion between old-world charm and contemporary urban development. Pettah encapsulates everything that makes Colombo unique - cultural diversity blending harmoniously with historical landmarks. Soak up its vibrant atmosphere as you explore the streets, taste local delicacies, and engage with friendly locals.