Galle Fort - the historic fort in Sri Lanka

Galle Fort

Galle Fort, also known as the Dutch Fort or the "Ramparts of Galle," was built by the Portuguese in 1588 and then expanded by the Dutch in 1649. On my recent trip to Sri Lanka my Southern MICE Expo 2004 group were fortunate to visit the Fort. 

The fort is located in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. It has a colorful history and is a symbol of the country's cultural heritage. 

The fort was built to protect the city of Galle from invaders and to serve as a trading post. It was also used as a prison camp for the Portuguese and later as a military base for the Dutch. Today, the fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many historic buildings, including the Dutch Reformed Church, the New Orient Hotel and the National Maritime Museum.

Galle Fort wall

The fort has a unique blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British architectural styles, with a mix of European and South Asian influences. It is surrounded by a wall with 14 bastions, each with its own name and history. The fort also has two gates, the oldest of which was built by the Dutch in 1669. The gates are adorned with the coats of arms of the Dutch East India Company and the British Royal Family.

Dutch Reformed Church

Inside the fort, there are many historic buildings, including the Dutch Reformed Church, which was built in 1640 and remodeled in 1752. The church has a historic belfry and a pulpit made of calamander wood from Malaysia. The New Orient Hotel was originally built in 1694 for the exclusive use of the Dutch Governor and his staff. It was converted into a hotel in 1865 and has been renovated several times since then. Today, it is a franchise of the Aman Resorts and is known as the Amangalla.

The fort also has a number of other landmarks, including the Old Dutch Hospital, the Meeran Jumma Mosque and the All Saints Anglican Church. The Old Dutch Hospital was built in the 17th century and has been restored to its original condition. The Meeran Jumma Mosque was built in 1904 and is one of the oldest mosques in Sri Lanka. The All Saints Anglican Church was built in 1871 and has a historic clock tower.

Maritime Museum

The fort has been damaged several times over the years, including during the 2004 tsunami. However, it has been restored and is now a popular tourist destination. Visitors can walk along the walls of the fort and explore the many historic buildings and landmarks. The fort is also home to many shops, restaurants and cafes, as well as a number of hotels and guesthouses.

In addition to its historical significance, the fort is also an important cultural symbol for the people of Sri Lanka. It represents the country's rich history and its cultural heritage. The fort has been the subject of many books, articles and films, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for artists, writers and musicians.

Old Dutch Hospital

In recent years, the fort has undergone significant renovations, including the restoration of the Old Dutch Hospital and the New Orient Hotel. The renovations have been done in accordance with UNESCO guidelines and have aimed to preserve the fort's historic integrity while also making it more accessible to visitors.

All Saints Anglican Church

Overall, Galle Fort is a unique and fascinating place that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history and cultural heritage. Its blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British architectural styles, its historic landmarks and its cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture and architecture.