Deep in the southern tip of Sri Lanka, an ancient stone wall encapsulates the charming old town of Galle. This stone wall is renowned amongst locals and tourist alike as the Dutch Fort and it is a listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Dutch Fort still retains the quaint, old-world charm of the Portuguese and Dutch colonials who were responsible for building the fortress. In 1588, the Portuguese colonials first built the fortress and when the Dutch began their reign in the 18th century, they took it upon themselves to fortify the fortress so extensively that this rampart is still called the Dutch Fort. The Dutch built a series of pathways, a futuristic sewage system and ample housing in order to make a unique living and an administrative space inside the walls. This historic rampart is a favourite hangout of regular tourists who have fallen for the unique charm of Galle. Restaurants of a considerable variety and class, curio shops, antique sellers and Dutch colonial villas make wandering around the Dutch Fort a worthwhile activity.
The Dutch Fort is one of the wonders of the southern coast worth exploring and for those interested in an extended vacation in this part of Sri Lanka there are many relaxing options such as Mosvold Villa.
During the colonial era, the Dutch Fort used to be a port of call for the vessels that braved the seas between the exotic East and the far away Europe. A walk around the Dutch Fort near sunset will allow visitors to truly enjoy the charms of this fortress from a bygone era. Pay a visit to the lighthouse where the Dutch called for their ships, and witness the architectural beauty of some of the first Dutch Reformed and Anglican churches, dine at one of the many gourmet restaurants and watch the sunset colours splash across the blue skyline.
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. Google+