The Last King’s Prison Cell, also known as the Portuguese Prison, is a prison cell located in the Colombo Fort area of Colombo, Sri Lanka. The cell is believed to have been used to imprison the last king of Sri Lanka, Vikramabahu III, after he was captured by the Portuguese in 1593.
There is some debate about whether or not the Last King’s Prison Cell is authentic. Some historians believe that the cell is a later fabrication and that the real last king of Sri Lanka, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha was never imprisoned there. King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha was captured by the British in 1815, and the Kandyan Convention was signed, marking the end of Sri Lanka’s monarchy.
There is no definitive proof to support either claim. However, there are some pieces of evidence that suggest that the Last King’s Prison Cell may be authentic. For example, the cell is located in the basement of a building that was once used by the Portuguese as a prison. The cell is also very small and dark, which suggests that it was not meant to be a comfortable place to stay.
Regardless of whether or not the Last King’s Prison Cell is authentic, it is still a fascinating place to visit. The cell is a reminder of Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture, and it is a place where visitors can learn about the country’s colonial past.
However, its authenticity is contested. Some historians argue it’s a later fabrication, suggesting that Sri Vikrama Rajasinha was never held there, as he was captured by the British much later, in 1815. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, certain aspects, like its location in a former Portuguese prison, lend credibility to its historical significance.
Regardless of its true origins, the cell stands as a compelling reminder of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. It ignites curiosity and debate, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tales and secrets of a bygone era. Whether it served as a royal prison or had another purpose, it remains an emblematic part of Sri Lanka’s story.
This enigmatic site in Colombo is more than a mere historical landmark; it is a journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s storied past, continuing to inspire and shape the future. For a deeper understanding, Arundathie Abeysinghe’s article provides further insights into the historical context and debates surrounding the Last King’s Prison Cell.
For more detailed exploration, read Arundathie Abeysinghe’s article here.