Gaffoor Building, Commercial building in Fort, Sri Lanka
The Gaffoor Building is a four-story structure located in Colombo's Fort district at the intersection of Sir Baron Jayatilaka Mawatha and Leyden Bastian Street. Its distinctive wedge shape creates a striking geometric form that stands out among the surrounding colonial-era buildings.
The building was constructed in 1915 as a home for jeweler Noordeen Hajiar Abdul Gaffoor's gemstone trading enterprise. It represents a key period in the commercial development of Colombo's historic business quarter during the early 20th century.
The structure received Protected Monument status in 2000, recognizing its role in Sri Lanka's architectural and commercial development during the early 20th century.
The building is centrally located in the Fort district and is easily accessible by public transportation and on foot. The area is pedestrian-friendly and situated near other historic sites and commercial activities.
The building's owner was a recognized gemstone trader who displayed his collection to notable visitors and participated in major international trade exhibitions. This brought significant attention to the business within the global gemstone industry of that era.
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