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Top Sights in Galle
Galle is a fortified port city on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, best known for Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects centuries of European colonial rule and maritime trade.
The fort stands at the heart of the city and preserves a layered history shaped by Asian and European powers along the Indian Ocean routes.Galle began as an ancient harbour known as Gimhathiththa and served as an important stop on the Maritime Silk Road long before European arrival.Persian, Arab and Chinese traders used the port to exchange spices, gems and other local goods, linking Sri Lanka to regional and global markets.The Portuguese arrived in the 16th century and began fortifying Galle in 1588, focusing mainly on defence against inland attacks rather than naval threats.In 1640, the Dutch captured the port and rebuilt the fort with thick coral and granite walls, creating a planned town with a grid-style street layout.Under Dutch rule, Galle Fort developed into a major military and administrative centre, complete with bastions, gates and permanent civic structures.The British took control in 1796 and retained Galle as their main southern administrative base, adding landmarks such as the lighthouse and clock tower.In 1988, Galle Fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised as the largest surviving European-built fortress in Asia with much of its original form preserved.