Galle Dutch Fort: A Must-See Attraction on Your Sri Lanka Travel List

If you are fascinated by Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the Galle Dutch Fort.This wonderful fortress is a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO and one of Asia's strongest colonial fortifications.

It showcases the centuries of cultural exchange between South Asian and European civilizations.
The Galle Dutch Fort has a long and colorful history that dates back to the 16th century.

It was first built by the Portuguese in 1588 on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, where they were drawn by the natural harbor and strategic location of Galle.

Galle Fort serves as a center of hub for world wide trading connecting Sri Lanka to Greece, Arab , China and many others for more than a hundred of years.

The Portuguese named the town either after a rock or a rooster, depending on which version you believe.In Portuguese, both words are pronounced “gallo”, while in Sinhala, the local language, they are “gala”.The Portuguese fort was not very sturdy or impressive, and it soon fell into the hands of the Dutch in 1640.

The Dutch expanded and fortified the fort with thick granite walls, bastions, ramparts, and moats.They also built churches, hospitals, warehouses, administrative buildings, and a sophisticated water supply system inside the fort.The Dutch East India Company (VOC) ruled over the local population from the fort, which was a self-contained city within a city.The Dutch fort was able to withstand several attacks from rival colonial powers like the French and British until it finally surrendered to the British in 1796.

The British made some changes to the fort, such as adding a lighthouse and a clock tower, but they largely preserved its original Dutch architecture and layout.The fort remained under British control until Sri Lanka gained its independence in 1948.

Today, the Galle Dutch Fort is a living museum that attracts thousands of visitors every year.You can explore its historic buildings, museums, galleries, shops, cafes, and hotels that reflect its diverse cultural heritage.

You can also enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and the city from its walls and bastions.
The Galle Dutch Fort is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to experience Sri Lanka’s past and present in one place.




The Galle Dutch Fort is not only a historical treasure, but also a scenic wonder. You can admire the beauty of nature and architecture from different angles and perspectives. 
You can sit and relax on ramparts to watch sunrise or sunset over the Indian ocean. It is an amazing and very relaxing experience. 
You can stroll along the narrow streets and alleys, or relax in the shady courtyards and gardens. You can witness the contrast between the old and the new, as the ancient fort blends with the modern city. The Galle Dutch Fort is a place where you can experience the charm and magic of Sri Lanka in every moment.

Galle Dutch Fort: A Must-See Attraction on Your Sri Lanka Travel List
You can watch following YouTube video of my channel to virtual walk through of Gall fort.


 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heikI3WWwfc&t=63s