This magnificent hybrid of Indian and British architecture was copied from the plans of an Indian Maharaja’s palace designed by a London architect. Richmond Castle in Kalutara is a two-storied building with 15 rooms. All the rooms are naturally air-conditioned. Richmond Castle has 99 door frames, 38 windows and one roof covering the entire mansion. The entire building is characterised by intricate carvings. Italian and Scottish glass windows and mirrors, and shiploads of timber from Burma, were imported to build this magnificent edifice. The mansion is complete with a stable, workers’ quarters, guard rooms, dancing floor and all requirements for a luxury life.

 
Richmond Castle has a fascinating history. Built in 1896, it is considered to be one of the most spectacular architectural works of the period. It was built for a regional governor turned philanthropist with an impossibly long name - Padikara-Mudaliyar (that’s a title) Rajawasala Appuhamilage Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena (1888-1949).
 

Richmond Castle reveals a fascinating story of a millionaire whose life turned from a strange fairy tale into surmounting misery. Once a palace, emanating unending sounds of joy and happiness, hundreds of  parties attracting aristocrats, noblemen, and the upper echelon, it become a quaint and almost ghostly palace, lying in seclusion amidst the forest.
 
Richmond Castle has now been converted into a Montessori school for underprivileged children, and is also a popular tourist attraction.
 
(Content Source : Travel Sri Lanka Magazine)
(Image Source   : angelfire.com,traveljournals.net)