# Batticaloa > city in Eastern Province, Sri Lanka **Wikidata**: [Q810963](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q810963) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batticaloa) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/batticaloa ## Summary Batticaloa is a city in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, located at coordinates 7.7166666666667° latitude and 81.7° longitude. With a population of approximately 95,489, it serves as the administrative center of the Batticaloa District and is known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and strategic location in the region. ## Key Facts - **Location**: Eastern Province, Sri Lanka - **Coordinates**: Latitude 7.7166666666667°, Longitude 81.7° - **Population**: 95,489 (as of the latest available data) - **Administrative Center**: Batticaloa District - **Website**: [http://www.batticaloa.dist.gov.lk](http://www.batticaloa.dist.gov.lk) - **Sitelink Count**: 47 (indicating its prominence in online references) - **Wikipedia Title**: Batticaloa - **Wikidata Description**: City in Eastern Province, Sri Lanka ## FAQs **What is the significance of Batticaloa in Sri Lanka?** Batticaloa is a key administrative and cultural hub in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, serving as the center of the Batticaloa District. It is notable for its historical landmarks, including the Batticaloa Lighthouse (established in 1913) and its role in the region's political and economic development. **What are the main attractions in Batticaloa?** Batticaloa is home to several notable attractions, including the Zion Church, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Batticaloa (established in 2012), and the SLAF Batticaloa airport. The city also features historical sites like Saddam Hussein Nagar and the Batticaloa Lighthouse, which have contributed to its cultural and tourist significance. **How does Batticaloa contribute to Sri Lanka's economy?** Batticaloa plays a role in Sri Lanka's economy through its administrative functions, tourism, and infrastructure. The city's strategic location and historical sites make it a point of interest for both locals and international visitors, supporting the region's economic activities. **What is the cultural heritage of Batticaloa?** Batticaloa is rich in cultural heritage, with historical sites such as the Zion Church and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Batticaloa reflecting its religious and communal diversity. The city's landmarks and historical significance contribute to its cultural identity within Sri Lanka. ## Why It Matters Batticaloa is significant as a cultural and administrative center in Sri Lanka, known for its historical landmarks, strategic location, and contributions to the region's economic and social development. The city's role in preserving cultural heritage and serving as a hub for local governance makes it an important part of Sri Lanka's identity and infrastructure. ## Notable For - **Administrative Hub**: Serves as the center of the Batticaloa District, managing local governance and development. - **Cultural Heritage**: Home to historical sites such as the Zion Church and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Batticaloa, reflecting its religious and communal diversity. - **Tourism Attractions**: Features landmarks like the Batticaloa Lighthouse and Saddam Hussein Nagar, attracting both locals and international visitors. - **Economic Contribution**: Supports the region's economy through tourism, infrastructure, and administrative functions. - **Historical Significance**: Known for its role in Sri Lanka's political and economic development, with notable landmarks dating back to the early 20th century. ## Body ### Location and Geography Batticaloa is situated in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, at coordinates 7.7166666666667° latitude and 81.7° longitude. The city serves as the administrative center of the Batticaloa District and is known for its strategic location in the region. ### Population and Administration With a population of approximately 95,489, Batticaloa is a key administrative and cultural hub in Sri Lanka. The city's official website is [http://www.batticaloa.dist.gov.lk](http://www.batticaloa.dist.gov.lk), and it has a sitelink count of 47, indicating its prominence in online references. ### Historical and Cultural Significance Batticaloa is notable for its historical and cultural heritage, including landmarks such as the Zion Church and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Batticaloa (established in 2012). The city also features the Batticaloa Lighthouse, established in 1913, and Saddam Hussein Nagar, which contribute to its historical significance. ### Economic and Tourist Contributions Batticaloa plays a role in Sri Lanka's economy through its administrative functions, tourism, and infrastructure. The city's strategic location and historical sites make it a point of interest for both locals and international visitors, supporting the region's economic activities. ### Related Entities - **Batticaloa District**: The district of which Batticaloa is the administrative center. - **SLAF Batticaloa**: The airport located in Batticaloa, serving as a key infrastructure point. - **Eelam Revolutionary Organisation**: A former Tamil militant group with connections to Batticaloa. - **Roman Catholic Diocese of Batticaloa**: The diocese established in 2012, reflecting the city's religious diversity. - **Zion Church, Batticaloa**: A notable church in the city, contributing to its cultural heritage. ### Infrastructure and Development Batticaloa is supported by infrastructure such as the SLAF Batticaloa airport, which enhances its role as a regional hub. The city's development is also influenced by its administrative functions and cultural significance. ### Cultural and Religious Diversity Batticaloa's cultural heritage is reflected in its religious diversity, with landmarks such as the Zion Church and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Batticaloa. The city's historical sites and landmarks contribute to its cultural identity within Sri Lanka. ### Economic Impact Batticaloa's economic impact is evident in its role as a tourism destination and administrative center. The city's strategic location and historical significance support its contributions to the region's economy. ### Historical Context Batticaloa's historical context includes its role in Sri Lanka's political and economic development, with notable landmarks dating back to the early 20th century. The city's historical significance is reflected in its cultural heritage and administrative functions. ### Future Developments Future developments in Batticaloa are likely to focus on enhancing its infrastructure, cultural heritage, and economic contributions. The city's strategic location and historical significance make it a key point for future development and growth. ## References 1. [Source](https://discoverarchives.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/samuel-james-velupillai-s-j-v-chelvanayakam-fonds) 2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 3. Flickr Shapefiles Public Dataset 2.0 4. GeoNames 5. BBC Things