Jaffna Clock Tower, Clock tower in Jaffna, Sri Lanka.
The Jaffna Clock Tower is a white stone structure with four clock faces positioned at a central intersection of the city. The building displays British colonial characteristics in its design and stands as a prominent landmark in the urban landscape.
The tower was built in 1875 to commemorate a royal visit and represented a major community effort at that time. Its construction was central to Jaffna's urban planning and helped define the city's layout.
The tower serves as a gathering point in Jaffna's center, where people naturally pause and orient themselves throughout the day. Its structure blends colonial design with local building traditions, making it a familiar landmark in the city's rhythm.
The tower is located near the city center and is easily visible and accessible from multiple streets. The four clock faces are viewable from different angles, making it helpful for orientation when moving through the city.
The tower sustained serious damage during armed conflict and later underwent comprehensive restoration with international support. This rebuilding process turned it into a symbol of recovery for the community.
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