GALLE FORT

Galle fort, in the bay of Galle on the south west coast of Sri Lankan, was built first in 1588 by the Portuguese, and then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17^th century from 1649 onwards. It is a historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument, which even after more than 423 years maintains a polished appearance, due to extensive reconstruction work done by archaeological department of Sri Lanka. The heritage value of the fort has been recognized by the UNESCO and the site has been inscribed as a cultural heritage UNESCO world heritage site under criteria iv, for its unique exposition of ‘ an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and south Asian traditions from the 16^th to the 19^th centuries “. The Galle fort, also known as the Dutch fort or the ‘ ramparts of Galle” it covers an area of 52 hectares ( 130 acres).