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Galle Fort

This fort dates back to 1588 and was colonized by the Portuguese, Dutch, and English and sits prominently on the Indian Ocean where azure water lap the coast.

Galle, Sri Lanka

Added By
Perry VoScott
Galle Fort   A.Savin
  A.Savin
  A.Savin
Locals Enjoying Free Fort Entertainment   MarkTimeTravel (Atlas Obscura User)
Galle Fort Clock Tower and Cricket Ground   MarkTimeTravel (Atlas Obscura User)
Court Square in Galle Fort   voscott (Atlas Obscura User)
Galle Dutch Fort Lighthouse   yooperann (Atlas Obscura User)
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About

The city of Galle in Sri Lanka is perfect for walking and taking in architecture from the past three centuries. A fort on the Bay of Galle was established by Portuguese colonizers in 1588, then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century.

The fort resembles a small walled town with streets in a rectangular grid pattern and low houses in the Dutch colonial style. Inside the fort area there are a number of historic churches, mosques, commercial and government buildings. Make sure to try egg and string hoppers for breakfast and visit one of the local beaches in Unawatuna or Welligama.

Related Tags

Forts Colonialism

Know Before You Go

Since you'll probably be traveling south to Galle from Colombo there are two options: the train with a view of the local villages and the sea or a private driver. I would not recommend renting a car or driving in Sri Lanka as it may be hazardous to your health and peace of mind. Leave the driving to the professionals.

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voscott

Published

May 11, 2021

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