Hambantota Gallows
About the Gallows
Hambantota gallows has a history since colonial era in Sri Lanka. A main leading character who known as Kohorekumbure Rala was killed using Hambantota gallows. Kohorekumburerala was one of the main character of independence war in 1818. This gallows still remains at Hambantota. This gallows has built by using a kithul trunk. At once 4 people can hang into this gallows. According to Leonard Wolf’s reports, he used to watch the gallows through a window from his official residence. Official residence of government agents is situated near Hambantota gallows. During his service period (1908-1911) the gallows had used to kill 7 people. Later this gallows used as a flagpole. Today you can see this gallows with a stunning beach landscape. Although this gallows belongs to dark memories of the colonial era.
Directions – Matello Tower, the Government Agent’s old official residence, Magampura Museum and this gallows are located close to each other. However, this place is a little hard to find. But getting there is not so difficult. Next to the Magampura Museum, follow the footpath near the wall of the Government Agent’s official residence (about 100 meters). When you take a 90-degree turn on this path, you will see the gallows. You can reach the gallows at the other end of the road. The total walking distance is about 200 meters.
