As a country having been governed by various invading nations, Sri Lanka has an eclectic combination of Portuguese, Dutch and British influence in almost everything. The Galle Fort is a classic example. So much so that in 1988, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
First captured by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the fort has scant relics of this period. It was in the 17th century under the Dutch that the Fort was truly fortified and resembled the structural outlook it depicts today. The large bastions and ramparts put in by the Dutch truly served as strong fortifications against invading parties, especially as the sea close to the fort was strewn with rocks. In addition, evidence of ship wrecks can still be seen in the Fort.
Although initially a harbour, today the fort is essentially a walled in city. Under the management of the British who took over the fort, the walls were restored and the bastions at the entrance were taken down to make way for a massive gate. Presently, the wall above the entrance bears the British coat of arms on the outside and the insignia of the Dutch East India Company on the inside.
The maze of streets gives way to charming little pathways and hidden alleys along, where houses and buildings are maintained in the style of a long gone era. In fact, there is now a law that prohibits renovation which would change the appearance of the Dutch style buildings. Within the walls, there are luxury hotels and charming guesthouses to cater to the influx of visitors, who enjoy exploring this quaint little city within the Fort.
The paths atop the ramparts are popular trails along which you can walk around the city and are a popular past time for the locals as well as visitors. Apart from this, there is a museum and other delightful colonial buildings to investigate. If you are interested on embarking on a
Sri Lanka Holiday and want to have a fulfilling experience, Truly Sri Lanka will provide the best information on the island. A travel portal showcasing the wonders of the country, experiencing the Southern City of Galle and the Galle Fort should definitely be on your list of
Sri Lanka Places to See.
