ICOMOS Sri Lanka
ICOMOS Sri Lanka is the ‘National Committee’ of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS).
ICOMOS was created in 1965 and works for the conservation and protection of cultural heritage places.
ICOMOS Sri Lanka National Heritage List
Sri Lanka has a rich and diverse cultural heritage ranging from the pre-historic period to modern times. It consists of humble pre-historic cave dwellings to storied royal palaces, megalithic burials to gigantic stupas, ornamental ponds to man-made great tanks, gardens to panoramic landscapes, etc., which are rapidly disappearing from our land and are also not considered for protection. The properties with heritage values will be listed in ICOMOS Sri Lanka’s National Heritage List. Once the nominations are received by the ICOMOS Sri Lanka Secretariat, they will be evaluated by two committees. The Technical Evaluation Committee is appointed by the Council of ICOMOS Sri Lanka, and with their recommendations, the information shall be forwarded to the Scientific Committee, which is also appointed by the Council of ICOMOS Sri Lanka, whose task is to make the final recommendations to the Council of ICOMOS Sri Lanka regarding the nominations of heritage properties to be inscribed on the ICOMOS Sri Lanka National Heritage List.
ICOMOS Sri Lanka Events
Beyond Dr. Roland Silva Charting New Frontiers in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Heritage.
National Conference
Dr. Roland Silva was a pioneering figure in the heritage sector of Sri Lanka. As the visionary founder of the Central Cultural Fund, he spearheaded landmark initiatives such as the UNESCO-led Cultural Triangle Project and was instrumental in establishing Sri Lanka’s international reputation for excellence in heritage conservation. His distinguished career reached a historic milestone in 1990, when he became the first Asian to serve as President of ICOMOS International.
Marking the 35th anniversary of this achievement, a National Conference will be held to honour Dr. Silva’s enduring legacy while exploring the future of heritage preservation in Sri Lanka.
The National Conference will take place in Colombo on 11 and 12 October 2025, and is jointly organised by Central Cultural Fund and the ICOMOS Sri Lanka. The event will provide a platform for both senior and emerging scholars to engage in meaningful dialogue and share research on Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
In Memoriam: Vidyajothi Emeritus Prof. Nimal De Silva
1945 – 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vidyajothi Emeritus Professor Nimal De Silva, Former President of ICOMOS Sri Lanka—a towering figure in the fields of architecture, academia, and heritage conservation.
Born in 1945, Prof. De Silva was educated at Richmond College and the University of Ceylon, later obtaining his Master’s in Architecture. His illustrious career began in public service and evolved through pioneering academic and professional contributions. He joined the University of Moratuwa, where he rose to the rank of Senior Professor, shaping generations of students and professionals while holding numerous leadership roles.
A visionary in architectural conservation, Prof. De Silva founded the ACOMAS programme, advancing conservation education in Sri Lanka. His legacy includes numerous landmark heritage projects, most notably the post-conflict restoration of the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
Internationally, he represented Sri Lanka with distinction, contributing to the missions of ICOMOS, UNESCO, ICCROM, and several cultural heritage agencies across Asia. His expertise played a vital role in World Heritage nominations and conservation efforts in countries such as China, Korea, and Laos.
Prof. De Silva’s scholarly research, leadership, and generous mentorship have left an indelible mark on Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage landscape. In recognition of his lifetime of service, ICOMOS Sri Lanka has awarded him its highest honour—the Gold Medal.
He will be remembered not only for his exceptional contributions to the preservation of cultural heritage but also for the inspiration he provided to countless students, colleagues, and heritage professionals across the globe.
May he attain the supreme Nibbana.
