Old Dutch Fort at Galle

The Old Dutch Fort, also known as the Galle Fort lies on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The fort was first built by the Portuguese in the year 1588, and the initial fortifications were quite basic. However, in the 17th century, the fort underwent extensive modifications by the Dutch, making it one of the most important archeological, architectural and historic monuments to illustrate the European influence in South East Asia between the 16th and 19th centuries.

The Galle Fort Structure and the Changes

The structure of the Portugese
Built by the Portuguese, the initial structure of the fort was basic and was made of mud and surrounded by palisades or stakewalls. There were three bastions and a single rampart.

The Dutch Renovations and Restructuring
After the Dutch took over the charge of renovating the fort, they found the defense was lacking in terms of the old fortifications. Therefore, they decided to encircle the entire peninsula in the strongest fortifications. They had walls towering walls built with coral and granite.

Changes under the British
In 1796, the British made the fort their southern headquarters bringing along many changes. The changes included sealing of the moat, construction of houses and a lighthouse at the bastion Ultrecht.

Attractions

Old Dutch Hospital - The Old Dutch Hospital building was constructed during 1681, and has crossed many stages before getting converted into a shopping complex, that it is today.

Dutch Reformed Church - One of the finest and most traditional tourist attractions in Galle, he Dutch Reformed Church is worth a visit.

Flag Rock, Galle - The Galle Flag Rock Bastion is where you need to be if you seek some peace. The Flag Rock an ex-Portuguese Bastion, situated at the southernmost end of the Galle Fort, today is a popular destination for tourists to witness the sunset.