A slender Victorian landmark in central Jaffna, the Clock Tower commemorates the 1875 visit of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, to Ceylon. Money left over from the reception fund, topped up by local contributions, paid for the tower, designed by government architect James Smither after townspeople agreed on the project at a public meeting in 1880. The bell carries the date 1882.
Badly damaged during the civil war, the tower was restored with British funding after a 1998 visit by Charles — the later Prince of Wales — and reopened in June 2002. It makes a handy orientation point and a quick, photogenic stop while exploring the city centre on foot.
Good to know
- Steps from the Public Library — the two pair naturally on a walking loop
- Best photographed from the esplanade side in late afternoon
- The surrounding market streets are great for short strolls and snacks
- Viewed from outside; the tower itself isn't climbed