For now approx. 500 years old Galle Fort was initially built by the Portuguese around 1588, then fortified by the Dutch from 1649 onwards, until it eventually fell to the hands of the British in 1796.
Built by the Portuguese during the 16th century while their conquests against Ceylon, the fort was later fortified and conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century, until it later fell to the control of the British.
Galle Fort is by far the most important tourist attraction place in Galle. Spread over a humongous area of approx. 36 acres, the fort is a settlement in itself which showcases the century-old culture and colonial heritage of Galle.
Galle city and its Fortifications are ranked on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The Galle Fort is erected according to European traditions.
The best months to be in Galle are between Decembers to April, as there is little rain so it is relatively dry during these months. However, throughout the year, even during the monsoon months of May to September, there is much to see and do here.
Important Links (Sri Lanka)