Nestled along the serene western coastline, Mount Lavinia Hotel stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history. With a legacy spanning over two centuries, our esteemed establishment seamlessly blends cherished traditions with contemporary sophistication, ensuring unforgettable moments for every guest.
Originally the summer abode of the second English Governor in 1806, Mount Lavinia Hotel is steeped in historical grandeur, echoing the tales of old Ceylon. Reflecting a harmonious blend of past and present, our iconic estate invites visitors to immerse themselves in the heart of authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.
From its humble beginnings as the private residence of Sir Thomas Maitland, our hotel has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. As each governor left their mark on the estate, it evolved into a beacon of luxury and elegance. The love story of Sir Thomas Maitland and Lovina Aponsuwa, immortalized by the secret tunnel connecting their abodes, adds a romantic allure to our heritage.
Throughout its storied history, Mount Lavinia Hotel has witnessed significant milestones, including being repurposed as an asylum and its eventual resurrection as a premier colonial style hotel. The echoes of World War II, captured during its tenure as a British Army supply base, further enrich its narrative.
Today, under the stewardship of our dedicated team, Mount Lavinia Hotel continues to uphold its legacy as a cherished landmark. With a commitment to exceptional service and a reverence for our historical roots, we invite you to embark on a journey of timeless elegance and unrivaled hospitality at our esteemed establishment.
Mount Lavinia Hotel, with its grandiose architecture and commanding presence, is not only a symbol of British colonial power but also the site of a deeply romantic and clandestine love story. This tale begins with Sir Thomas Maitland, the second British Governor of Ceylon, who discovered an enchanting promontory overlooking the sea in the village of Galkissa, now known as Mount Lavinia. Here, he envisioned and built his grand residence, a place where he could retreat from the pressures of his position.
Sir Thomas Maitland, known fondly as “King Tom”, set eyes on a beautiful mestizo dancer, Lovina Aponsuwa, the half Portuguese and half Sinhalese lead dancer of her father’s dancing troupe. He fell instantly in love with Lovina, for nowhere had he seen such beauty and such grace. Lovina became a regular performer at the Governor’s house. Flattered by the attentions of this high-ranking official, Lovina, the lowly dancer was further elated when, as a token of his growing affection, she learned that he was to name his grand country mansion Mount Lavinia, after her. Before long, King Tom and Lovina were engaged in a clandestine romance, their deep passion for one another flourishing in secret, away from the disapproving eyes of the English society in Colombo, and the moral imperatives of such a closed community.
Lovina’s life could not have been more different from that of her lover. She was from the lowest caste among the Sinhalese, the Rodiya community. She lived in humble dwellings a short distance from the Governor’s grand mansion.
An underground tunnel was created for the Governor and his beloved to keep their trysts secret. The mouth of this tunnel was a disused well near Lovina’s dwelling place, and the underground passage led to the cellars of the Governor’s House. Their romance continued for six years.
The duties of Governorship soon took their toll on King Tom and poor health forced him to leave the island of Ceylon and his adored Lovina. Although the departure of King Tom was to naturally seal the end of their love affair, Lovina’s name is remembered as providing the inspiration in naming the Governor’s house.
To this day, the secret tunnel remains, keeping alive the memory and spirit of the beautiful mestizo dancer, elevated in the popular imagination to” Lady Lavinia”.
Holding the same allure, it has held over the last 200 years, the legacy of Mount Lavinia continues to be a source of mystery and fascination.
Sir Thomas Maitland, the first British Governor of Ceylon, served from 1805 to 1811. He built the Mount Lavinia House, later known as Mount Lavinia Hotel. His secret romance with local dancer Lovina Aponsuwa is a legendary part of the hotel’s history.
Sir Thomas Maitland, 2nd Governor of Ceylon moves into the newly constructed house and names it ‘Mount Lavinia’
Sir Thomas Maitland leaves the Island.
Governor of Ceylon from 1812 to 1820, Sir Robert Brownrigg is known for his role in annexing the Kingdom of Kandy, bringing the entire island under British control and consolidating British power.
Sir Edward Paget was Acting Governor of Ceylon from 1822 to 1824. A military officer, his short tenure focused on maintaining order and defence during a transitional period for the colony.
Governor of Ceylon from 1824 to 1831, Sir Edward Barnes significantly developed the island’s infrastructure, particularly in roads and ports. He also promoted coffee cultivation, helping to modernise the local economy.
The House was put up for auction without success.
Mount Lavinia becomes a full-fledged hotel.
New wing opened and the hotel was known as the ‘Grand Hotel Mount Lavinia’.
During World War II, the hotel was used as a hospital and a military base.
The Governor’s Palace is a gorgeous tribute to the rich history and stunning beauty of the British colonial architecture and the enchanting love story that is weaved into every narrative that spring from the iconic, Mount Lavinia Hotel.
Steeped in mystery and intrigue, Mount Lavinia Hotel has survived passing through many vicissitudes. The Governor’s Palace captures this 200-year-old journey with timeless photography and fascinating writings that reveal its British colonial past.
The Governor’s Palace also celebrates the political intrigue and grand designs that have long been associated with Mount Lavinia Hotel.
A memoir and a guidebook in one, The Governor’s Palace is the perfect browse for the traveller, tourist or the pleasure-seeker in you.