Colonial Heritage of Sri Lanka
Galle Dutch Fort
Galle fort, initially built by the Portuguese was of historical
importance because of its strategic location. Galle’s natural deep water harbor,
which was located in the sea trading routes between Arabia, India and Southeast
Asia, made a significant impact on the colonisation of the island. Therefore Galle
became a key centre of trade where goods such as precious stones, spices, ivory
and pearls were frequently traded over the years. In 1587, the Portuguese built
the Galle Fort and numerous Moorish mosques. However it was the Dutch that later
fortified the walls of this ‘living’ time capsule. The Dutch defeated the Portuguese
and proceeded to build large ramparts around the city of Galle. The entire topography
of the city was changed with the construction of a paved underground system of sewers
and a magnificent church called The Dutch Reformed Church, which can still be visited
today. Unlike the Portuguese who believed that religion was of foremost importance,
the Dutch believed that trade or profit was of utmost significance. In 1796, the
British took over the city of Galle and retained its position as a main trade centre
of Ceylon. However with the discovery of the Colombo harbor, Galle’s position as
the epicenter of trade declined slowly. Galle still retains its old world charm,
and the Dutch ramparts are perfect for taking long leisurely strolls whilst watching
the rosy sunset. The low roofed houses that are engulfed within the Galle fort display
typical Dutch architecture. Verandas that spill out into ornately decorated gardens
and plant filled courtyards, can viewed even today. Galle fort has now become a
fashionable area with many boutique properties and villas being opened up. This
UNESCO World Hertiage Site will enchant its visitors, whilst effortlessly holding
onto its old world rustic charm.
Colonial sites within the fort:
The Ramparts
The Dutch Museum
National Cultural Museum
The Lighthouse
Amangalle Hotel
The Dutch Reformed Church
All Saints Church
Meera Jumma Masjid Mosque
Matara
The Dutch were attracted to the town of Matara because of the deep estuary of the
river Nilwala, enabling the trade of cinnamon and elephants. The Dutch went on to
build two ramparts around the city of Matara – the Main Fort and the Star Fort.
The main fort was used to guard the land from the Indian Ocean. Cannons were mounted
on these ramparts as a defensive tool. The Star Fort was built later on, following
the rebellion that took place in 1762, where the Sinhalese took over the Main Fort.
Therefore the Star Fort was built to compensate for the lack of defensive power
of the Main Fort. These ramparts of The Star Fort were the last structures built
by the Dutch in Ceylon. This tiny construction consisted of 12 points in which cannons
were mounted on to defend the Main Fort. The Star Fort was also sounded moat, which
was once filled with crocodiles. Matara now consists of the Old Town and the Modern
Town. The Old Town retains its quiet colonial charm. However unlike the city of
Galle, the small guest houses and old colonial houses are sadly not as well preserved.
The Main Fort houses an old clock tower that was built by the British in 1883 and
old regal houses with large colonnaded verandas that are typical of Dutch architecture.
Colonial sites of Matara:
Muhiyiddenil Jeelani Mosque
Dutch Reformed Church
St Mary’s Church
Lighthouse at Dewi Nuwara (7 kms from Matara)
Colombo
Sri Lanka’s bustling capital city was originally built by the Portuguese in the
16th century. The city was further developed by the Dutch and British and is now
the commercial hub of the island. The Portuguese made Colombo the bastion of their
rule for almost 150 years, however little evidence remains of this era apart from
the Roman Catholic churches that scatter the city. The central area of the city,
or Fort, is strewn with a few colonial buildings with distinctly British flavour.
The stark contrast between these monumental buildings, that stand side by side modern
structures, evokes a sense of eclecticism that is typical of Colombo. The old parliament,
the Presidents House and the terracotta hued brick walls of Cargill’s (a 19th century
department store) still remain virtually unchanged today. The Dutch Wolvendaal Church
on Wolvendaal Street was built in 1749. Here you will discover tombstones of late
Dutch governors, whose bones were buried here showcasing how short life could be
due to lack of sufficient medical care.
Colonial Sites in Colombo:
Wolvendaal Church
The old Parliament
Cargill’s
The Dutch Period Museum
Negombo
The Portuguese initiated the trade of cinnamon in Negombo, this is when the city
began to thrive. The Portuguese left their mark in this town with the numerous ornate
Roman Catholic Churches. Even today Negombo has been nicknamed ‘Little Rome’ due
to the whole host of grand churches that dot the coastline. After the Portuguese
were defeated by the Dutch, cinnamon production was not hindered as it was one of
the key economic features of this coastal town. The Dutch proceeded to build a winding
network of canals, which was used to transport spices and gems to the Negambo harbour.
They also built the Old Dutch Fort, which was meant to guard the city from invaders.
Unfortunately this fort is dilapidated and is beyond repair. Driving through this
town you will notice the old Portuguese and Dutch houses that date back centuries.
Colonial Sites of Negombo:
St Mary’s Church
Hamilton Canal
Nuwara Eliya
The city of Nuwara Eliya was fondly named ‘Little England’. Discovered by Samuel
Baker, the cooler climate meant that this city was haven for British civil servants
and planters in Ceylon. The entire city of Nuwara Eliya seems to conjure up memories
a bygone era, where British colonists spent their days fox hunting, deer hunting,
playing polo, golf and cricket. The town was founded in the 19th century by the
British who left their permanent mark on this settlement. Driving though the streets
of Nuwara Eliya you will notice the number of distinctly English cottages with flowering
gardens and lusciously green lawns. Tea plantations cover the mountains of Nuwara
Eliya, as British planters flocked to the hill country. Here slow growing tea bushes
produce the finest Orange Pekoe tea in the world. Nuwara Eliyas cool climate, laid
back lifestyle and glorious landscapes attract both local and foreign tourists seeking
an escape from the daily grind.
Colonial sites of Nuwara Eliya:
The Hill Club
Adhisham Monastery
Nuwara Eliya Golf Club
Lake Gregory
Hakkgala Botanical Gardens
