Old Dutch Hospital: Where Colonial History Meets Modern Luxury

Colombo’s 17th-Century Healing Space Reborn as a Lifestyle Hub

Once a hospital for Dutch East India Company sailors, the Old Dutch Hospital is now Colombo’s most atmospheric destination for boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and Instagrammable colonial charm.

Why This Landmark is Unique

Living History

• Original 1681 structure – One of Colombo’s oldest Dutch buildings.
• Archaeologically preserved – Exposed beams and antique medical implements.
• Strategic location – Between Galle Face Green and Colombo Fort.

Modern Transformation

• Houses Ministry of Crab (Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants).
• Spa Ceylon’s flagship store – Luxury Ayurveda products.
• Wine bars in former surgery rooms.

Best Experiences

1. Shopping with a Story

• Odel No. 11 – Designer Sri Lankan apparel.
• Sri Lanka Tea Board Shop – Rare single-origin teas.
• Vintage Camera Museum – With working 1940s photo booth.

2. Dining in Historic Settings

• Ministry of Crab: Signature chili crab (Book weeks ahead).
• The Tuna & The Crab: Japanese-Peruvian fusion.
• Café Francais: Croissants in the old apothecary.

3. Sunset Drinks

• The Dutch Pub: Craft cocktails in the former morgue.
• Harbour Court: Rooftop views of the port.

Visitor Tips

• Best Times:
  • Mornings (9-11 AM): Peaceful photography.
  • Evenings (5-7 PM): Lively ambiance, live music.
• Parking: Use Galle Face Hotel lot (5-min walk).
• Price Level: Mid-high range (LKR 2,000+ per meal).

Nearby Attractions

• Galle Face Green (3-min walk).
• Colombo Lighthouse (10-min walk).
• Dutch Museum (15-min walk).

Local Insights

• Hidden Gem: Ask to see the original surgeon’s tools behind The Dutch Pub.
• Special Event: December Wine Festival in the courtyard.

Book a Colombo History & Food Tour!

Experience this + other Dutch-era gems at srilankatourhelp.org.

Pro Tip: Ministry of Crab’s "Garlic Crab" pairs perfectly with their pandan juice!

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