Sri Lanka’s historic maritime city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Galle Fort, which was built by the Portuguese, fortified by the Dutch, and used by the British. The strong influence of the Dutch is visible throughout the city in its colonial architecture, churches, and mansions. Today, Galle city is a bustling cosmopolitan with its captivating character fully intact. It has one of the most active regional ports in the country, and you don’t have to look far for fresh seafood. Its neighbouring beaches are highly sought-after for their beauty and water sports. As southern Sri Lanka’s most famous city, Galle, provides the ultimate mood and charm for exotic seaside holidays.
Top Attractions
Dutch Fort
First, incepted by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the Dutch expanded it. You can walk along its thick ramparts spread across 130 acres overlooking the ocean.
Galle Lighthouse
Built by the British in 1939, this lighthouse is still in operation. It is the oldest light station on the island and a principal Galle Sri Lanka attraction.
Dutch Reformed Church
Also known as Groot Kirk, it was built in 1755 by the Dutch. It is the oldest Protestant church still in use in Sri Lanka. It has a wooden pulpit and a gravestone floor.
The National Museum of Galle
Visit the Galle Museum, which is in the oldest remaining Dutch building in the Galle fort. It houses artifacts from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British periods.
Old Gate
It is the entrance to the fort, originally built by the Dutch and modified by the British. The outside has the British coat of arms and the inside the Dutch VOC.
Maritime Museum
1671 Dutch warehouse within Galle Fort, serves as the museum. The items displayed here take you through the Dutch East India Company trading routes.
Gallery
