Groote Kerk as it is known in Dutch is one of the oldest Protestant churches still attended by worshippers in Sri Lanka. Built in 1755, the Dutch Reformed Church is adorned with exquisite stained-glass windows and paved with the tombstones of the departed faithful. It is one of the most popular places to visit within the iconic Galle Fort.
The Best-Preserved Colonial Era Fort
The Galle Fort itself is a historic treasure trove that remains suspended in time. You can make a quick trip to the fort from any hotel in Galle. There are plenty of hotels and resorts a few minutes’ drive outside the fort including properties such as Tamarind Hill, while you can also consider making use of Airbnb options.
Distinct Architecture
The Dutch Reformed Church was constructed in one of the three canonical orders of Greek and Roman architecture, known as the Doric style. This means the church has the impression of a cruciform with no tower in the centre to hold up the structure of the roof.
The Portuguese and the Dutch
The current church is the third one built inside the fort. The original church was built closer to the present clock tower and the second one was located opposite the current church. Only the belfry remains of the second church today. The current Groote Kerk is said to have been built on the location of a Portuguese era convent.
The British Influence
Once the British took over the country, they dismantled the south end for an altar and communion rails and added a stained-glass window to the west end for the Anglican community.
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+
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