Points of Interest - Natural Wonders
Fort & Lighthouse
First built by the Portuguese in 1588 and was fortified by the Dutch in 1600, Galle Fort presently is a UNESCO declared world heritage site. Today this 90 acre fort is a compilation of various religions, architecture and cultures. The whole area is filled with fusion of restaurants from all around the world and quaint little boutique shops displaying beautiful collections of old and new. The roads are adorned with unique items such as classic vehicles, bicycles and statues that scream the styles of bygone era in Down South Sri Lanka.
It is an ideal place to sip a hot cup of tea or coffee or a cool refreshing smoothie after a long day of walking, but if you’re looking for an alcoholic drink you’re better off in one of the restaurants along the beach, since the Fort cafes don’t serve alcohol due to various religious places also present inside the fort walls. But don’t get disheartened, as this unique exposition of an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries will keep you wandering down the roads of Galle Fort for a whole day.
Galle Lighthouse - The Lighthouse is built on the rampart of the landmark Galle Fort. This is Sri Lanka’s oldest lighthouse dating back to 1848, although the original lighthouse was destroyed in a fire on 1934 and was rebuilt to 26m height.