Joanna James
Galle Fort, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is a historical and cultural landmark that attracts thousands of visitors each year. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fortress built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch. The fort stands as a testimony to Sri Lanka's colonial past and offers a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. Here are some fun facts about the Galle Fort that you must know before you visit.
The Galle Fort was built on a natural harbour known as Galle Bay, which was a strategic location for trade during the colonial era. The bay provided a safe anchorage for ships, and the fort served as a vital link between Europe, India, and Southeast Asia. The harbour was an important trading centre for spices, gems, and other commodities. It was also a popular stopover point for ships travelling between Europe and Asia. Today, Galle Bay is still a bustling port and a popular tourist destination, with visitors enjoying boat rides and fishing trips.
The Galle Fort is a unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting the influence of different colonial powers that ruled Sri Lanka. The fort was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, but it was later fortified by the Dutch, who took over in the 17th century. The British also had a presence in the fort during the 19th century. The fort's architecture is a reflection of these colonial powers, with Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences visible in the buildings, walls, and other structures. The fort is particularly known for its distinctive Dutch-style buildings, with their white walls and red roofs.
The Galle Fort has a rich history, and it played a significant role in the colonial era. In addition to being a center for trade, the fort was also a strategic military location. It was used as a stronghold during the Dutch and British colonial periods, and it played a vital role in Sri Lanka's struggle for independence. During World War II, the fort was used as a base by the British Royal Air Force. Today, the fort is a symbol of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and a reminder of the country's colonial past.
The Galle Fort is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of cuisine on offer. In addition to traditional Sri Lankan food, visitors can sample French, Italian, and Japanese cuisine, among others. The fort is also known for its street food, with vendors selling a variety of snacks and sweets. Some of the must-try dishes include kottu roti, a popular street food made with shredded roti, vegetables, and meat or egg, and hoppers, a type of pancake made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars in the fort, offering everything from coffee and cakes to cocktails and wine.
The Galle Fort is a cultural hub, with plenty of activities on offer for visitors. The fort is home to a number of art galleries, showcasing the work of local and international artists. Visitors can also attend traditional dance performances and music concerts, or take a guided tour of the fort's museums and historical sites. The fort is particularly known for its maritime museum, which houses artefacts and exhibits related to Sri Lanka's maritime history. In addition, the fort hosts an annual literary festival, which attracts writers and intellectuals from around the world. The festival features readings, panel discussions, and workshops on a wide range of topics, from literature and politics to travel and food.
In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, the Galle Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The fort is one of the best-preserved examples of a fortified city built by European colonial powers in South and Southeast Asia. The UNESCO listing has helped to promote and preserve the fort's cultural heritage and attract more visitors to the area.
The Galle Fort has been used as a location for a number of films and TV shows, including the popular Netflix series "The Crown". The fort's unique blend of colonial architecture and tropical scenery makes it an attractive filming location for filmmakers and TV producers. Visitors can even take a guided tour of the fort to see some locations used in various films and TV shows.
The Galle Fort is also known for its shopping, with a variety of boutique stores selling everything from handcrafted jewellery to designer clothing. Visitors can browse through the stores and pick up souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. One of the unique shopping experiences in the fort is the Moonstone mines, which offer visitors a chance to see the mining process and purchase moonstone jewellery directly from the source. The Galle Fort also has a vibrant street market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts
To sum it all up, the Galle Fort is a fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Its history, architecture, cuisine, and cultural offerings make it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. Whether you're interested in history, art, or food, the Galle Fort is sure to delight and inspire you. If you happen to plan your stay in the down south of Sri Lanka, at establishments like Araliya Beach Resort & Spa or if you are considering things to do in Unawatuna or Galle, you should not miss visiting the Galle Fort.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
