The History of Galle Face Green

The entrancing city of Colombo is a fascinating metropolis to explore. Here you will find a myriad of interesting things to do that will capture the interest of the sightseer.

History

Galle Face Green is a historical site and it is surrounded by several landmarks of historical significance. The site was once a marsh until it was converted into a recreational space by the British Governor, Sir Henry Ward, in 1856.

British sports

Golf, cricket, football, hockey, horse racing, and rugby were first played in Sri Lanka on Galle Face Green. The Parliament of old colonial Ceylon stands tall and elegant at one end of the stretch. Today, it functions as the Presidential Secretariat Building.

Evenings at Galle Face Green

With its central location and proximity to the shore, it is little wonder that this locale is one of the hottest areas in the city with Colombo luxury apartments coming up in its vicinity such as One Galle Face. There is plenty of room for kids to enjoy, the constant sea breeze is perfect for kite flying and couples can enjoy a walk along the promenade just above the beach or on the sandy shores itself.

Street food

Street vendors roll in their carts around 5 pm and set up their mobile businesses for the evening. Local snack foods like chopped fruit, spiced lentils and fried dhal patties with a prawn pressed into the top, known as ‘isso wade’, are readily available.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+