Towering against the bright blue skies and against the backdrop of the gorgeous, alluring waters of the Indian Ocean, the Galle Lighthouse is a landmark of beauty and history. Located on the south east corner of the Galle Fort, a walk along the ancient ramparts of the Fort, with a captivating view of the Indian Ocean will find you gawking at this pristine, ivory white lighthouse. In Galle, hotels can be found in quite a large number, of varying budgets and styles, with properties such as Cantaloupe Aqua also located on the beach side – which gives you unhindered views of the ocean!
Galle – Le fort Old dutch | Image Credit – PIERRE ANDRE LECLERCQGalle.- Le fort Old dutchThe Galle Lighthouse was known to be one the first lighthouse stations that were built on the island and one of the few that are remaining today. The original tower stood at 24.5 meters high, and the light was a prism lens glass powered by a weight driven machine. However, this was destroyed in 1934. The new structure; which currently stands erect, was built in 1939 and stands to a height of 26.5 meters. The lighthouse was built 6 meters above the level of the ramparts known as Point Utrecht Bastion. The lighthouse is managed by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and is powered by a computerized system which turns on at dusk and off at dawn.
Galle is a historically beautiful city and is definitely worth the visit if you’re touring the island. The Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as glorious test against time. First built by the Portuguese in 1588, it was marked on Ptolemy’s map around 125- 150 A.D. By the 17th century, the Dutch took over the fort and fortified it. The fort served as an important trading stop for many Chinese, Arab, Greek and Indian businessman.
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.
