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Sri Lanka

Captain Dawson Tower

Standing tall and proud atop the Kadugannawa Pass, this historic monument tells a tale of ambition and sacrifice.

About

Situated along the Colombo-Kandy Road, Captain Dawson Tower commemorates the legacy of Captain William Francis Dawson, a dedicated engineer who played a pivotal role in the construction of the first modern highway in Sri Lanka. Tragically, Captain Dawson's life was cut short in 1829, succumbing to the challenges of the harsh Sri Lankan climate and, as folklore suggests, a snakebite. In his honor, friends and admirers erected the Dawson Tower in 1832 on the very terrain he had conquered. This tower, a posthumous tribute to Dawson's dedication and expertise, overlooks the Kadugannawa Pass, a testament to his technical prowess. While the tower itself may not be accessible for exploration due to its poor condition, the surrounding area provides an ideal spot to reflect on the significance of Captain Dawson's contributions to Sri Lanka's transportation history.

Practical

Sri Lanka
8:50 AM GMT+5:30
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