The city of Galle on the southern coast is considered to be one of Sri Lankas oldest cities. According to historical texts the city was in existence even during the 14th century when Arabian traveler Ibn Batuta visited the island nation. He speaks of the citys bustling port and describes it as a trading hub that was filled with ships from all over the world. Even today the Galle Harbour is one of Sri Lankas busiest sea ports with many international and local ships berthing here.
It was Galles status as a port city that drew the first colonists here. In the year 1505 a Portuguese sailor Lourenco de Almeida was blown off course by a storm and managed to find his way to Galle. Thus began the saga of European colonialists in Sri Lanka. Within the next few years the Portuguese would effectively capture the coastline of Sri Lanka. Having recognized the menace the invaders posed to the country, the Sri Lankan King at that time entered into an agreement with the Dutch to drive off the Portuguese.
However, the Dutch were impressed by the strategic location of the ports in the country and also decided to settle in and colonize the country after driving off the Portuguese. During the Dutch rule of Galle, the Galle Fort was built in the year 1663 and was to later become one of the benchmarks among European military fort buildings.
The Fort which was built primarily as a fortification also housed some of the Dutch government buildings of the region. These buildings are well-preserved even today and are wonderful examples of traditional European colonial architecture. Many of the Dutch military officers and government officers also built their homes within the walls of the fort. These houses, which are over hundred years old, lend the city of Galle its unique aura.
Many
Galle hotels are located close to the Old Dutch Fort and give travelers an opportunity to witness what life would have been like centuries ago. A
hotel in Galle such as the Jetwing Lighthouse is also located close to the beaches on the southern coast and is a wonderful option for travelers looking an unforgettable leisure holiday.
