The Ratnapura Clock Tower is a historic landmark located in the heart of Ratnapura Sri Lanka. Serving as a significant symbol of the citys colonial heritage the clock tower stands as a reminder of the British influence on the regions architecture and infrastructure. It is situated in a central location making it a well-known point of reference for both locals and visitors. The structure features a classic design with a sturdy base and a clock face that has helped keep time for the citys residents for decades. Over the years the clock tower has witnessed the transformation of Ratnapura from a quiet town into a bustling commercial hub known for its rich gem industry. Despite modernization the Ratnapura Clock Tower remains an iconic part of the citys identity preserving its historical charm while continuing to serve as a functional and cultural landmark.
Our city of Ratnapura is known in the world as the Gem City. The reason for this is that this city is full of gems. Also, the fact that this city is a very important city historically is a matter of pride for the people of Ratnapura.
Among the historical sites and monuments in Ratnapura, the Hora Pillar Clock Tower, which stands majestically in the city, which is a pride of the city, holds an important place.
During the time when Sri Lanka was a colony of Britain, British nationals who were employed in Ratnapura joined the war on behalf of the British-led allies in the First World War, and this clock tower was built as a war memorial to commemorate the twenty-two British who died there.
At that time, the Ratnapura Local Board decided to build a clock tower in Ratnapura town and the War Memorial Committee held a competition to select a design and awarded prizes. It is recorded that the estimate for the clock here was 285 pounds submitted by the Times Supply Agencies of London and Mr. R. Bunning, the Ratnapura Government Agent and Chairman of the Ratnapura Local Board, approved it.
The cost of this clock tower was Rs. 11,000.00. This monument, built to commemorate the war heroes of the First World War that ended in 1918, was inaugurated on 17.03.1922. Mr. H. W. Codrington served as the Ratnapura Government Agent at that time. The names of twenty-two war heroes are inscribed on this monument. According to the plan of the Ratnapura Municipal Council, the height of the clock tower is 49 feet and 3 inches. The clock tower has always been a special event for the people of Ratnapura, as it is used as a flood gauge and to express the identity of Ratnapura.
