Maritime and Naval History Museum

The Maritime and Naval History Museum is a white colonial building with two exhibition floors covering naval history and marine ecosystems in the region. The structure contains extensive collections documenting maritime heritage from different periods.

The building served as residence for the Dutch Naval Commissioner from 1602 to 1795, then shifted to administrative functions under different rulers until Sri Lankan independence in 1948. These transitions reflect changing control over the coastal region.

The museum demonstrates how the sea has long shaped daily life and identity in this region through maritime traditions and trade practices. Visitors can see how these practices influenced the community over time.

The museum is easily accessible from central Trincomalee and maintains regular opening hours except on Tuesdays. Visitors will find the two-floor layout straightforward to navigate without needing special preparation.

The first floor houses detailed documentation of east coast marine life with emphasis on Pigeon Island's flora and fauna. This collection reveals the biological diversity that visitors might encounter in the surrounding waters.

Location: Trincomalee

Inception: February 3, 2013

Opening Hours: Wednesday-Monday 08:30-15:30

Website: http://navy.lk

GPS coordinates: 8.56981,81.23744

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:02