- A Dual-Purpose Landmark: The structure was built as a clock tower in 1857 and became a lighthouse ten years later, in 1867. This makes it a rare example of a building that served two distinct functions.
- Predates London’s Big Ben: The clock tower was completed in 1857, two years before the installation of London’s famous Big Ben. Its clock mechanism was manufactured by Dent, the same English clockmakers responsible for Big Ben.
- Designed by a Governor’s Wife: The tower’s design was created by Emily Elizabeth Ward, the wife of Governor Sir Henry George Ward.
- The Tallest Structure in Its Time: At 29 meters (95 ft), it was the tallest building in Colombo when it was completed.
- A Replacement for an Even Older Lighthouse: The clock tower’s light replaced an older, neo-classical lighthouse built in 1826 and 1829. This first lighthouse was later demolished.