Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a fortified city built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and further developed by the Dutch and British. Located on a small rocky promontory on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, it's the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South Asia, showcasing the interaction between European planning and South Asian architectural traditions.
The fort is characterized by its ramparts, bastions, and a maze of narrow streets lined with houses, restaurants, shops, and hotels. It houses significant historical buildings like the Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk), All Saints Church, and the Galle Clocktower. The fort also features the Galle Lighthouse and art galleries.
Galle Fort was once a major trading port, and its buildings reflect colonial architectural styles, while also incorporating South Asian elements like internal courtyards and verandas. The unique character of Galle Fort is a result of this blend of European and South Asian traditions.
The fort is characterized by its ramparts, bastions, and a maze of narrow streets lined with houses, restaurants, shops, and hotels. It houses significant historical buildings like the Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk), All Saints Church, and the Galle Clocktower. The fort also features the Galle Lighthouse and art galleries.
Galle Fort was once a major trading port, and its buildings reflect colonial architectural styles, while also incorporating South Asian elements like internal courtyards and verandas. The unique character of Galle Fort is a result of this blend of European and South Asian traditions.
