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Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beckons you with its captivating blend of history, charm, and tropical flair. This enchanting city boasts a rich colonial past being first conquered by the Portuguese in the 16th century and then transformed into Sri Lanka’s main spice trading port under Dutch rule in the 17th century. Further expanded by the British, the legacy of these eras lives on in the impressive fortifications and the unique architectural tapestry and artefacts on display in Galle Fort’s history.
Today, Galle Fort offers a one-of-a-kind unique experience. Wander along cobbled streets lined with restored Dutch colonial buildings and now housing chic boutiques, cafes, and hotels. Embrace the friendly local culture, wander down a quiet lane and experience a time warp-like ambience where you are transported to a bygone era.
Situated on a rocky peninsula, the sea surrounds Galle Fort from three sides, making it a wonderful location for a fort. This strategic location made Galle Fort a prominent centre for trade throughout history.
Galle Fort is more than just a historical gem. It’s a haven for romance. With spellbinding rampart sunsets, charming museums and art galleries to explore, and intimate candlelit dinners overlooking the sparkling ocean, the Fort area is a host of experiences to enthral.
Whether you seek adventure, romance, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Galle Fort promises an unforgettable experience. Let its allure captivate you and create lasting impressions. Stay for a few nights to truly soak in the atmosphere, then venture out to explore delightful sites and surrounds.
Beautiful Galle Fort is in the city of Galle in the southwest corner of Sri Lanka, around 110 kilometres from the capital, Colombo. It’s a short drive to some of Sri Lanka’s popular beachside enclaves, including Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Mirissa.
There are several ways to get to Galle Fort from Colombo:
Galle Fort’s captivating presence can’t be fully appreciated without understanding its rich history.
For millennia, Galle has thrived as a major harbour and trading hub. Its strategic location along ancient shipping routes and its well-protected harbour made it an ideal port city. As early as 125-150 AD, records show Galle as a bustling port frequented by Greek, Arabic and Chinese traders, making it a key player in the Maritime Silk Road.
Sri Lanka’s south boasted an abundance of spices like cinnamon, pepper, and cardamom, a source of wealth for the Ceylonese. Ships laden with these treasures, along with metal, gems, silk, and porcelain, passed through Galle, making it a crucial export hub. The allure of these riches started to attract foreign traders seeking a foothold in the spice trade. The Moors, of Arab descent, established a prominent presence in Galle, creating an enclave around the harbour and leaving a lasting legacy visible in mosques, street signs, and surnames.
The 16th century saw the arrival of European powers vying for control of the lucrative spice trade. The Portuguese, with their maritime ambitions, were the first to arrive. They seized Galle in 1518, wresting control from the Moors. Recognising the need for protection, the Portuguese constructed the first Galle Fort. Over time, the fort grew larger and stronger to withstand threats from other colonisers.
By the 17th century, the Dutch, with their colonial ambitions through the powerful Dutch East India Company, emerged as a dominant force. In a bloody battle in 1640, they captured Galle from the Portuguese. The Dutch East India Company established a new era of prosperity. They completed the present Galle Fort in 1663, creating a massive structure with thick walls, bastions, and over 100 cannons. This formidable fortress remained unbreached despite the riches it protected.
The 19th century saw a shift in trade routes and technology. Galle Fort, unable to accommodate larger ships and facing competition from modern ports in Colombo, slowly lost its prominence. While this led to a decline in the city’s economic activity, it also had an unintended consequence – the lack of development saved Galle’s magnificent buildings from destruction. These very structures, remnants of a bygone era, now house boutique hotels, art galleries and restaurants, adding to the unique charm of the Fort.
Apart from the devastating 2004 tsunami, Galle Fort has undergone a remarkable revival. It has blossomed into one of Sri Lanka’s most sought-after tourist destinations. Often called the best preserved European fort in Asia, today it offers a captivating blend of history, culture and architectural excellence, all within the walls of a former colonial empire.
Don’t miss Galle on your Sri Lankan adventure. This historic city offers a captivating blend of romance and rich history.
