Heritage

Nupe Ancient Trade Center Building (නූපේ පැරණි වෙළඳ ගොඩනැගිල්ල)

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Nupe Ancient Trade Center Building
Photo by Samarasinghe.N.H.

The Old Nupe Market in Matara is a stunning 18th-century T-shaped edifice featuring massive white stone pillars and elaborate latticework. Blending Dutch and British colonial influences with traditional Kandyan “pethi ulu” tiling, this restored architectural landmark now serves as a vibrant cultural center for exhibitions and local heritage.

The historic market building at Nupe Junction is traditionally believed, according to an on-site notice board, to have been constructed by the Dutch in 1775. However, an alternative account from the Cultural Heritage Connections—a Dutch cultural heritage source—attributes its construction to the British.

Use During the Colonial Period

Regardless of its precise origin, the structure at Nupe functioned as a market during the period of British occupation in Matara. The building was designed in the shape of the English letter “T” and was elevated on pillars. It was roofed with rounded clay tiles, supported by an intricately crafted wooden framework adorned with elaborate latticework.

Architectural Features

The building stands approximately 15 meters (49.2 feet) in height and is supported by large white stone pillars. Its roof is laid with characteristic Kandyan-period flat tiles, known as pethi ulu. A distinctive architectural feature of the structure is the presence of three small subsidiary roofs positioned above the main roof.

Decline and Restoration

In the years following the British period, the spacious Nupe structure gradually fell into disuse and eventually into a state of neglect. Over time, it became derelict and was used as shelter by stray cattle. During the 1980s, part of the building collapsed while restoration efforts were being initiated by the Department of Archaeology.

Subsequently, responsibility for restoration was assumed by the Urban Development Authority, which completed the work in 1989. Following its restoration, the building was handed over to Hunupitiya Gangarama Temple, which utilized it for a cottage industry.

Present Use

Today, the restored building at Nupe Junction serves as a venue for various exhibitions, reflecting its adaptive reuse while preserving its historical and architectural significance.

Also See

Map of Nupe Market Building

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Travel Directions to Nupe Market Building

Route from Colombo to Nupe Market Building

Through : Southern Expressway
Distance : 162 km
Travel time : 2.30-3 hours
Driving directions : see on Google map

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