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Updated by Joanna James on Mar 16, 2024
Headline for Colonial Attractions in Galle fort– the city and its charms
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Joanna James Joanna James
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Colonial Attractions in Galle fort– the city and its charms

The city of Galle in Sri Lanka bears much significance in the history of the country and is an absolutely wonderful place to visit. Therefore, it's better if you leave the best for last on your trip to the island. It is an ancient city of trade which even attracted many of the European colonizers beginning with the Portuguese, then the Dutch and last of all the British. Here are a few places to visit in Galle.

1

The Dutch Fort

The Portuguese arrived in Sri Lanka in the 16th century and built a thick wall to protect the city from other invaders. This was later strengthened by the Dutch forces that came to the country. The walls are so thick that you could just walk along the ramparts and admire the view of the endless stretch of sea from here. The beaches here are amazing too and perfect for sunbathing. The view of the ocean from here proves that the waters are crystal clear and clean here. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

2

Dutch Hospital

Although the name of the place is Dutch Hospital, today it is not exactly a hospital per se. Instead, the houses that used to line these cobblestone alleyways were bought out and converted into shops selling all sorts of wonderful souvenirs. The old structures, however, have been maintained well leaving a strong sense of colonial nostalgia in the air as you walk through the narrow pathways. It is also a great place to take some beautiful pictures.

3

Groote Kirk

See even more evidence of Dutch architecture in Galle. A visit to the Dutch Reformed Church here not far from the Dutch Fort is an awe-inspiring piece of history! Definitely worth your time as you'll see olden stained-glass works, stoned floors and the main highlight here is the pulpit. Services still take place here in the church.

4

Visit the Lighthouse

One of the oldest lighthouses in Sri Lanka, the Galle lighthouse is a wonderful piece of architecture. This structure was built of wood originally, however, it was destroyed in a fire. Later it was rebuilt by the British. It is a popular item to be photographed here in Galle. With palm trees next to it, the Lighthouse looks great and boasts a good view too.

5

Hit the local museum

Galle is a city where history has left its marks that will never be erased no matter how much time passes by. There is a museum at the fort itself that you can explore and learn more about history. If you are staying at a beach resort the likes of Heritance Ahungalla, make sure to leave a little early so you can see all the attractions in one day.

6

The sunset

Hungry? Grab a bite ate one of the many great restaurants near the fort and fill up your belly. Towards evening, grab a fruit juice from a wayside vendor to revive yourself. As you wait for the sunset, maybe get a portrait sketched too. The sunset here is unmissable, so make sure you wait to see it too! Due to the attractions there are plenty of hotels in and around Galle Fort in places like Ahungalla, hotel deals are frequently available too.