One of the most popular places to visit when you’re in Sri Lanka, the Galle Fort is a historical landmark. Want to know more about this iconic location before you visit it?
1) History
This is initially where the Portuguese made their first landing in Sri Lanka back in 1505. With their close friendship with the then King of the country Dharmaparakrama Bahu, they made many developments in the country. In 1604, the Dutch entered the country and took control of the fort, followed by the British in 1796.
2) Geography
Located in Galle which is the southwest most corner of Sri Lanka, this is where the shoreline turns towards the east to cities like Matara and Tangalle. The fort was built on a small rocky peninsula and today covers around 130 acres.
3) Landmarks
There are several iconic landmarks in the area such as the Dutch Reformed Church, the National Maritime Museum and the Old Dutch Hospital. If you’re on the lookout for Koggala hotels, you’ll find plenty of great options to chose from like South Lake Resort for example.
4) Demography
The city of Galle is home to over 112,200 people throughout an area of 16.5 square kilometres. The people within the fort are mostly Moor, with Sinhalese, English, German, Portuguese and Dutch settlers as well.
