Sankiliyan Thoppu—also known as Cankilian Thoppu or the Poothathamby Arch—is a historic archway located in the Nallur area of Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Believed to have once formed part of the palace facade of the Jaffna Kingdom, the arch now stands as a remnant of the region’s royal past and cultural heritage.
The structure displays architectural features blending local and colonial influences. Constructed of brick and plaster, it has a semi-circular arched opening. Though much of the original palace is gone, the arch remains a symbolic gateway and a focal point of Jaffna’s historic urban fabric.
Visitors approach the arch from Nallur following the Jaffna-Point Pedro Road, arriving at a modest but evocative monument. The site is quiet, allowing contemplative viewing of its inscriptions and structural details. Nearby is a statue commemorating King Cankili II, underscoring the arch’s connection to his reign and legacy.
Declared as an archaeological protected monument in 2007, the arch is accessible year-round and is situated a short walk from Nallur Kandaswamy Temple. The best time to visit is during the dry season when paths are clear and maintenance is simplest.
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लगभग 25 किमी के भीतर 8 जगहें, सबसे नज़दीकी पहले।
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- Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Festival in Jaffna1 किमी से कम
- Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil1 किमी से कम
- Jaffna Market1 किमी से कम
- Jaffna Fish market1 किमी से कम
- Archaeological Museum Jaffna1 किमी से कम
- Jaffna Clock Tower1 किमी से कम
