Historic Jaffna Kingdom Structure Damaged —Preservation Efforts Stalled

COLOMBO (News 1st); A portion of the Mantri Manai, also known as the Minister’s Palace, a designated archaeological monument from the Jaffna Kingdom era, has reportedly collapsed in Nallur.

The site, gazetted as a protected monument under the Department of Buddhist Religious and Cultural Affairs, is believed to have been constructed by the Arya Chakravarti kings who ruled the northern region from the 13th to the 17th century.

The structure is renowned for its Mayo stone construction, lime-plastered walls, and South Indian architectural influences, including circular columns visible at the main entrance and interior.

Speaking on the matter, Ministry Secretary W.P. Senadeera confirmed that the monument is located on privately owned land, which has complicated conservation efforts.

Despite repeated requests for permission to restore the site, the landowner has reportedly declined, leaving authorities unable to proceed with necessary preservation work.

In response, the Ministry has sought legal guidance from the Attorney General to determine the next steps in safeguarding the monument.

The Mantri Manai is historically considered to be part of the royal administrative complex of the Jaffna Kingdom and holds significant cultural and architectural value.