iSurprise Historial Mansion

First renovation

This family house was one of the first renovated houses in Fort. “When my father bought it in 1978, it was in a dilapidated condition. He was always a passionate antique collector – on family trips our van would come to an abrupt stop as soon as he spotted some old treasure on the side of the road” says Nasser Hussain, co-owner of the Historical Mansion. “There were few walls standing, but we found some original door frames belonging to the Portuguese period.”

Family museum

The family has opened their house to visitors and this lovely little museum is worth a visit. A true treasure trove, it is chock-a-block with plates, bowls, chairs, coins, clocks, stamps, spoons and other cherished finds. “My favourite pieces include a jakwood and ebony gaalu almaary (Galle almirah) which is made in a local style with floral fretwork. I also like the boolees which are clay flasks that seafarers carried with them to store water and liquor. The Dutch ones have an image of a bearded man and a unique symbol which signifies the area they came from in Holland” says Nasser who can be found sitting at the door on most days.

Gem shop on-site

Interested in learning more about gems? The museum is your type of place! If you’re not, you may want to skip the on-site gem shop at the end of your visit.