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Galle is one of the most popular cities in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka and is also known worldwide for its natural harbor; which has been used for centuries as an international harbor. Known for its vibrant culture and heritage, Galle is a city with a diverse society and many attractions, which has also made it one of the Sri Lanka's most popular tourist destinations. Ranging from historical landmarks to international stadiums, Galle offers its visitors many sights and scenes to see.
Galle is best known for the Galle Fort. In fact no trip to Galle would be complete without a visit to this cultural and historic landmark. Built and used predominantly by the Dutch settlers who colonized Sri Lanka in the 17th Century, the fort is home to some of the best preserved structures of Dutch architecture in Sri Lanka. With awe-inspiring churches, paved walkway and avenues, and quaint Dutch-styled houses, the Dutch Fort gives its visitors glimpse of the Dutch era of Sri Lanka. The Galle Fort is also home to many exquisite restaurants and lounges, as well as many stores, making this history landmark quite the exciting attraction.
Also located within the sprawling Dutch Fort complex is the Dutch Reformed Church, arguably one of the most iconic landmarks within the Fort built by the Dutch. Built in 1754, the church is one of the most visited landmarks of the Dutch Fort. The church, with is amazing Dutch architecture, is paved with gravestones of those who passed away in the Fort from the early 1700's to the early 1800's. The highlights of the church include a pipe-organ dating back to 1760 and beautifully crafted alters. The old caretaker of the church will be more than willing to give you the history of this beautiful church. Located close to the Galle Fort is the Tamarind Hill Galle, a plush heritage hotel Sri Lanka.
The Galle International Stadium is one of the main cricket stadiums in Sri Lanka. Originally used as a racecourse by the British colonizers, the Galle International Stadium is today one of the iconic cricket grounds in South Asia. The site regularly hosts international and domestic matches across all cricket match formats. Apart from being a site for any cricket lover, the stadium is also deeply intertwined in Sri Lanka Cricket, with the grounds being known for being the place of many of Sri Lanka's greatest performances in cricket.
Located behind the old Bell Tower of the Galle Fort is the Marine Archeological Museum. Galle, being a coastal city, has always had a close connection with sea faring and sea trade, and the Marine Archeological Museum showcases the marine history of Galle. Exhibits include information of shipwrecks, instruments used by local sailors, and other historic items. The other museum is the Historical Mansion Museum. Located in the Galle Fort, this private museum houses a fascinating collection of British and Dutch memorabilia. The collection includes old guns, uniforms, ceremonial costumes, day-to-day implements, and old maps & documents.
Something that many visitors of the Galle Fort miss out on is walking along the ramparts. The ramparts, with stand several feet tall tower over all the structures in the fort, and are accessible to anyone. Walking along the southern rampart gives you a glorious view of the Indian Ocean, while the north and west ramparts give you glorious views of the Galle city and the Galle International Stadium.
