The Galle Fort: A Living UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Galle Fort is the heart and soul of the city, an exceptionally well-preserved fortified city that tells the story of centuries of foreign influence. It was first built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later extensively fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. The British also used it as an administrative center. This fusion of European and South Asian architectural and cultural traditions is what gives the fort its unique character.

Within its massive granite ramparts and cobblestone streets, the fort is a living, breathing neighborhood. Visitors can wander through a maze of narrow streets lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and hotels. The fort’s walls offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, and are a popular spot for leisurely walks, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Key Attractions within the Galle Fort:

Galle Lighthouse: An iconic white lighthouse that stands at the fort’s southern end, providing a picturesque backdrop for photos and a marker for ships navigating the harbor.

Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk): Built in 1755, this is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka, known for its intricate interiors and historical relics.

Old Dutch Hospital: A beautifully restored two-story colonial building that now houses a collection of high-end shops and restaurants, offering a unique shopping and dining experience.

National Maritime Museum: Located in an old Dutch warehouse, this museum showcases artifacts, ship models, and exhibits detailing the marine history of the southern coast.

Galle Fort Clock Tower: A prominent late-19th-century monument that stands on the site of a former guard room.

History and Culture

Galle has a history that stretches back long before the arrival of the Europeans. It was a prominent seaport, known to traders from Persia, Arabia, Greece, Rome, India, and China. In fact, some historians believe it may be the ancient port of Tarshish, from which King Solomon is said to have sourced his treasures. The city’s history of trade and foreign influence has created a multi-ethnic and multi-religious population, which is reflected in the diverse places of worship, including the Meeran Jumma Mosque and various Buddhist and Anglican temples.

Beyond the Fort

While the fort is the main draw, the area around Galle offers other attractions and activities:

Galle International Stadium: Considered one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world, this stadium is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.

Beaches: The coastline near Galle is home to stunning beaches. The nearby town of Unawatuna is famous for its beautiful, crescent-shaped beach and calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Dalawella Beach is also a popular spot.

Rumassala Hill: A large hill near Unawatuna that offers panoramic views of the city and is steeped in local folklore and mythology, associated with the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. The Japanese Peace Pagoda is located on this hill.

Sea Turtle Hatcheries: Visitors can see and learn about the conservation efforts for sea turtles at various hatcheries along the coast.