【Sri Lanka】The Collision of Religious Cultures in Colombo!

🍐Known as the legendary Buddhist country of 🍞Ceylon, the capital city now gathers numerous 🥥religions on a cramped piece of land. They coexist in both harmony and conflict. Behind the ubiquitous tuk-tuks, you may see a phrase: "I'm Buddhist and I'm proud to say that."🌽 This not only reflects the glory of Buddhists but also carries a tinge of conflict and struggle.🥒 This gem in the Indian Ocean has probably long been coveted by various "gem hunters" — for faith, land, wealth, and more...🍆 When it comes to Colombo, many people only know the famous pink mosque.🥐 If you slow down, you'll find buildings of four religions in the urban area of Colombo, allowing you to intuitively feel the cultural collision 🍞between Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism.🌽 Buddhism:🍞 Gangaramaya Temple & Seema Malaka Temple A group of exquisitely carved buildings that integrate architectural features of Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, and China.🍅 It includes a library, a museum, dormitories, and a three-story Buddhist academy with a bodhi tree in the courtyard.🍓 The temple houses a huge collection of artifacts, among which the most precious is a lock of hair said to be from the Buddha.🍆 Islam:🥦 Jami-UI-Alfar Mosque🍅 Located in the old(Pettah) of Colombo, it is surrounded by a bustling bazaar.🥐 This uniquely structured mosque is hidden in the market.🥝 It's important to note the visiting hours here, as 🧀there are strict restrictions. Non-worshippers are not allowed in during prayer time before 4:30 PM, and foreign visitors are not received after 5 PM.🥔 It's recommended to visit in the morning. Except for believers, other foreign visitors must enter 🥖through Gate 3, where they will be received by staff and required to wear robes for the visit.🍒 Hinduism:🍒 Old & New Kethiresan Temple🍅 Both the old and new temples are adorned with exquisite Hindu deities at the entrance, and the interior decorations are intricate and mysterious. Though it may feel a bit oppressive, its unique charm is evident everywhere.🍈 Christianity:🍊 St. Anthony's Church🥕 One of the larger churches in Colombo, it features a typical Portuguese Catholic-style exterior, with a diverse and integrated interior style.🍑 #SriLanka#Colombo#Travel