Sitting on the southern coast of Sri Lanka the historical city of Galle is a hive of Colonial charm. The most iconic attraction in the city is the Old Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
An Iconic Attraction to Explore
Just 9 minutes from Jetwing Lighthouse Club the fort welcomes you to wonder the ancient cobblestone streets. Colonial villa style bungalows still exist. While historical churches display ancient architecture and period furniture. Check out the old lighthouse, dine at roadside cafes and visit the Dutch Museum housed in what was the bungalow of a Dutch officer. The city of Galle apart for the fort has much to offer in terms of colonial relics and exploring rustic fisher villages. Therefore better than Galle Fort hotels are hotels near Galle Fort; these allow you to easily explore both the city centre and fort without being constricted to one space.
History Behind Galle Port and the Fort
One of the country’s natural harbours Galle port was capitalised by the invading Portuguese who in 1589 proceeded to build a fort around it. The fort was a defence against Sri Lankan warriors defending the country and a means of harvesting the bounties of the island uninterrupted. Named Santa Cruz the fort occupied the rock peninsula facing the harbour.
Dutch Influence of the Fort
Santa Cruz did not last long as the Portuguese were overrun by the Dutch and the fort was torn down. In 1640 the Dutch re-build the magnificent structure that still dominates the city centre. The Dutch Fort continued to be an important point in the country acting as the main port for both merchant and military ships.
British Take Over the Galle Fort
Much of the infrastructure you see within the Old Dutch fort was introduced by the British who counted Sri Lanka as part of the British Empire in 1815. The ramparts were reinforced and cannons added while a larger entrance gate was constructed. Cobblestone streets and over 2000 various buildings are found within the fort which draws a large number of both local and foreign visitors a day.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
