Dikwella history

Origin of the Name and First Settlements

The history of Dikwella is inextricably linked to its geographical location on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The town's name derives from Sinhalese words translating to "long beach", which accurately characterizes the extensive coastline of this area. The exact founding date of the town is not recorded in historical chronicles, as the settlement developed organically over centuries.

Initially, Dikwella formed as a small fishing community within the historic region of Ruhuna, which played a key role in preserving Sinhalese statehood and culture in ancient times.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small village into a notable trading town was facilitated by the following factors:

• Geography: The presence of a protected bay and coral reefs created ideal conditions for the docking of fishing vessels and ensured the safety of the coastal zone.
• Transport Hub: Its location on the main coastal road between the major cities of Matara and Tangalle made Dikwella an important stopover and trading point.
• Crafts: Proximity to sources of raw materials and the traditions of master artisans fostered the development of local production.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of early Dikwella was built not only on fishing and agriculture but also on unique crafts. The region became renowned for:

• Lace Production: The tradition of lace weaving (Beeralu), which arrived with colonial influence, became firmly rooted in this area.
• Brassware: Local craftsmen were famous for their art of metalworking, creating household items and religious artefacts.

The spiritual core of the settlement became the **Wewurukannala Vihara** temple, the history of which dates back to the 18th century (the era of King Rajadhi Rajasinha). This Buddhist complex served as a centre for community life and education, uniting residents of the surrounding villages.

Major Historical Milestones

The history of Dikwella is closely interwoven with the fate of Sri Lanka's southern coast, from ancient kingdoms to the modern tourism era.

• Ancient Period — The territory of modern Dikwella is part of the historic Kingdom of Ruhuna, serving as an important point for local fishermen and traders.
• 16th Century — Arrival of the Portuguese on the southern coast, marking the beginning of colonial influence on coastal settlements.
• Mid-17th Century — Transfer of the region to the control of the Dutch East India Company, fostering the development of the spice trade and crafts.
• 1780s — Foundation of the Buddhist temple Wewurukannala Vihara during the reign of the Kandy King Rajadhi Rajasinha.
• 1796 — Establishment of British control over the coastal territories of Ceylon, leading to changes in the town's administrative management.
• 19th Century — Consolidation of Dikwella's status as a centre for traditional crafts, especially bobbin lace weaving (beeralu) and brass work.
• 1960s — Start of major reconstruction of the Wewurukannala temple and the erection of one of the tallest seated Buddha statues on the island.
• 26 December 2004 — The devastating Indian Ocean tsunami causes serious damage to Dikwella's coastal infrastructure and residential homes.
• 2005–2008 — Period of active restoration of the town, construction of new roads, and renovation of damaged shrines.
• 2014 — Opening of the Southern Expressway extension to Matara, significantly reducing travel time from Colombo to Dikwella.
• 2015–2017 — Sharp rise in the popularity of the neighbouring Hiriketiya Bay, turning the Dikwella region into a trendy international destination for surfing and wellness tourism.
• 2019 — Opening of the new railway line to Beliatta station (a few kilometres from Dikwella), improving transport connectivity with the capital.

Key Milestones in the City's Development

The evolution of Dikwella represents a journey from a traditional fishing village to a modern tourism and craft centre. Below are the main stages of transformation that defined the town's current appearance:

• Formation of a Craft Cluster (18th–19th centuries)

  The introduction and adaptation of European techniques (bobbin lace weaving) and the development of metalwork allowed for the diversification of the local economy. This transformed the settlement from a purely agrarian-fishing community into a trade and craft centre known beyond the province.

• Creation of a Religious Landmark (20th century)

  The reconstruction of the Wewurukannala temple and the construction of the 50-metre Buddha statue held immense cultural significance. This cemented Dikwella's status as an important pilgrimage centre, ensuring a constant flow of domestic tourists and the development of supporting service infrastructure.

• Urban Transformation after the Tsunami (2004–2008)

  Recovery from the natural disaster led to a forced modernisation of urban planning. Utilities were upgraded, more substantial structures were built, and construction boundaries in the coastal zone were revised, increasing the region's overall safety.

• Transport Revolution (2014–2019)

  The opening of the Southern Expressway and the launch of the railway station in neighbouring Beliatta became a powerful economic driver. Improved logistics simplified the delivery of goods to the local market and made the town accessible to tourists from Colombo, cutting travel time in half.

• The "Hiriketiya" Phenomenon and Gentrification (since 2015)

  The popularisation of Hiriketiya Bay as a world-class surf spot led to explosive growth in small businesses. This triggered an influx of foreign investment and the opening of European-style boutique hotels and cafes, significantly changing the economic landscape and the appearance of coastal neighbourhoods.

Urban Structure and Development

The architectural appearance of Dikwella formed spontaneously, dictated by the coastal geography and transport arteries. The town has a distinct linear layout, stretching along the main A2 highway (Galle Road). Urban development can be roughly divided into two zones: a dense commercial centre around the bus station and market, and a more sparse resort-residential area extending inland and towards the beaches.

The urban environment represents an eclectic mix of old trading rows, religious structures, and modern concrete constructions erected during the recovery from the 2004 tsunami.

Architectural Styles and Eras

In Dikwella, it is difficult to identify pure European styles like Gothic or Baroque, but a clear link can be traced between building types and historical periods:

• Colonial Vernacular (19th – mid-20th century)

  In the central part of the town and old residential districts, elements of architecture adapted to the tropical climate with Dutch and British influences have been preserved. Such buildings are characterised by tiled roofs, wide eaves for protection against monsoon rains, open verandas, and the use of whitewashed plaster. These are predominantly one- or two-storey "shophouses" and private villas.

• Buddhist Eclecticism and Monumentalism (20th century)

  The region's sacred architecture combines traditional Sinhalese motifs (carvings, bright paintings) with modern engineering solutions. A striking example is temple construction, where reinforced concrete structures are used to create massive statues and pavilions decorated in the style of the Kandy era.

• Utilitarian Modernism (late 20th – early 21st century)

  Most administrative and commercial buildings are built in a functional style: simple geometric shapes, flat roofs, and the use of concrete and glass. This development is often devoid of decoration and aimed at practicality and resilience to climatic conditions.

• Tropical Modernism and Eco-Style (since 2015)

  With the development of tourism in the Hiriketiya Bay area, a new layer of architecture has appeared. These are boutique hotels and villas using natural materials (bamboo, wood, polished cement) and the concept of open spaces that blur the boundary between the interior and the jungle. This style is inspired by the works of the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Landmark Structures Defining the Cityscape

Several key objects define the visual and cultural panorama of Dikwella:

• Wewurukannala Vihara Temple Complex: The dominant feature of the town and its surroundings. The complex includes a 50-metre seated Buddha statue (one of the tallest on the island), built in the 1960s. The temple's architecture is notable for its "Tunnel of Hell" — a gallery with life-sized sculptures illustrating Buddhist concepts of karmic retribution.
• City Market and Bus Station: The centre of public life. Although these structures are not architectural monuments, their dense, chaotic development with awnings and narrow passageways creates the recognisable atmosphere of a typical southern Sri Lankan trading town.
• Hiriketiya Resort Zone: An area demonstrating modern gentrification, where old fishermen's houses are being rebuilt into modern cafes and surf camps, changing the visual code of the coastline.

Notable Figures of Dikwella

Despite its modest size, Dikwella has been the birthplace of a number of significant figures who have left a notable mark on the culture, politics, and history of Sri Lanka. Below is a list of famous persons whose lives and work are inextricably linked to this town.

• Kumaratunga Munidasa (1887–1944)
  Linguist, writer, poet, and journalist
  One of the most influential scholars in the history of Sri Lankan literature of the 20th century. Born in the village of Idigasara (part of Dikwella). He founded the "Hela Havula" movement, which advocated for the purification of the Sinhalese language from excessive Sanskrit influence. His grammatical works and children's poems are still part of the country's school curriculum.
• Andare (18th century)
  Court jester and poet
  A legendary figure in Sri Lankan folklore. Although Udamalala is considered his place of death, local legends and a number of historical sources indicate that Andare hailed from the Dikwella area. He served at the court of the Kandy King Kirti Sri Rajasinha and became famous for his wit, satirical poems, and ability to speak the truth to kings through humour.
• Dullas Alahapperuma (born 1959)
  Politician, former minister
  A well-known contemporary political figure born directly in Dikwella. He has held various high posts in the Sri Lankan government, including Minister of Mass Media, Minister of Sports, and Minister of Transport. He plays an important role in the political life of the Southern Province.
• Prince-Monk Rajakumara (18th century)
  Buddhist monk, temple founder
  A historical figure linking Dikwella to the royal dynasty of Kandy. According to chronicles, he was the son of King Rajadhi Rajasinha, who renounced secular life and became a monk. He is considered the founder of the famous **Wewurukannala Vihara** temple, turning a humble abode into a significant religious centre.
• Dikwelle Kamal (Kamaldeen)
  Writer and translator
  A contemporary literary figure recognised for his contribution to intercultural dialogue. Known for his translations of Sinhalese literature into Tamil, which fosters closer ties between the island's ethnic groups. A multiple winner of state literary awards.
• Venerable Dikwelle Mahinda
  Buddhist missionary
  A prominent religious figure who served as the head of the Buddhist mission in Germany (Das Buddhistische Haus) in Berlin. His work contributed to the spread of Theravada Buddhism in Europe and the strengthening of cultural ties between Sri Lanka and the West.