The west coast city of Negombo lies nestled along a gorgeous stretch of golden shore. Home to everything from luxury resorts to budget hotels in Sri Lanka, this coastal sanctuary also offers unique insights into the island’s rich colonial heritage. The Dutch played a significant part in Negombo’s history and their influence can be seen even today. While the Dutch Canal is a significant landmark in the area, another historical site from this era can also be seen here, namely the Old Dutch Fort in Negombo.
This historical fort may not be as grand or can be explored like the one in Galle (also built by the Dutch), but it is well worth seeing for those interested in history or planning to explore the city. Those finding accommodation at properties like Hotel J Negombo can plan a visit to an area where remnants of this once mighty fort can be seen; these parts can be found within easy reach of the city’s main bus station and stands close to the Munnakkaraya Bridge. While the original part of the fort was subsequently destroyed by the British, visitors can still see a part of the eastern wall that leads to an area that was once used as a courtyard.
The origins of the Dutch Fort go back to the 17th and 18th centuries when the Dutch made Negombo a stronghold to protect their maritime, commercial and naval interests. The fort itself was constructed on a landmass that had the sea on one side and the lagoon on the other, providing great protection from invading forces. The fort together with the Dutch Canal opened up the easy transport of goods and gave the Dutch a chance to expand their commercial interests as well. With the British defeat of the Dutch, however, a major part of the fort was destroyed. However, those visiting what remains can perhaps let their imagination create in their mind’s eye what this mighty fort once looked like.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+
