Ragama: History and Architecture of the National Basilica

Ragama can also be explored as a place of religious history and architecture through the National Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka in Tewatta. Travelers wishing to include sacred art, historic architectural development, and scenic impressions in their trip will find several distinct themes brought together in one place. Its development spans from a small chapel and a grotto to the history of a votive shrine; the grounds also include a museum and expansive areas shaded by tropical trees.

Chapel, Grotto, and Votive Shrine

The story begins with a chapel, not the later Basilica: in 1911, a small chapel was built at the site of the later National Basilica by several Catholic laypeople and Father A. Kieger OMI in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes. At the time, the area belonged to the parish of Ragama. On November 11, 1917, Father A. Collore, with the support of Catholic workers from Colombo, had a small grotto built at the same site in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes. The chapel and grotto thus mark two early forms of devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes before the later Basilica.

The chapel was later enlarged to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. A new chapter in the story began during World War II: on May 26, 1940, the then Archbishop of Colombo, Mgr. Jean Marie Masson, vowed to build a votive shrine in honor of Our Lady of Lanka if the island were spared the horrors of war. Archbishop Thomas Cooray took on the task of fulfilling the vow and building the shrine. The distinction in dedication is also important: the chapel and grotto were dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, while the votive shrine envisioned in the vow was dedicated to Our Lady of Lanka.

Architecture and Museum

Architect Valentine Gunasekera designed the National Basilica by combining Sri Lankan, Indian, and Eastern-Western architectural traditions. A specific architectural feature reflects a different historical reference: the raised granite plinth resembles a typical plinth profile from the Anuradhapura period. The building therefore brings together several traditions in its overall design while also featuring a deliberate resemblance in the plinth profile.

The grounds also include a museum in the traditional Kandyan architectural style. It preserves the centuries-long history of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka. The collection includes wooden statues of Jesus, Mary, and various saints, whose artistic design is inspired by different cultures around the world. It also features antique vestments and liturgical clothing, as well as elaborate tapestries that illustrate the cultural and enduring influence of Catholicism on Sri Lanka.

Grounds and Views

The surroundings of the Basilica are also part of the setting. The expansive grounds are shaded by the canopies of numerous tropical trees. From the front steps of the right wing, Adam’s Peak can be seen through the early morning mist; visibility depends on the season and weather. If you are planning a visit to the Basilica or museum, check current visiting arrangements in advance.

Discover more destinations: Danowita, Hokandara, Veyangoda, Nugegoda, Kotadeniyawa, Pugoda, Maggona, Homagama

For the broader travel overview: Western Province.