Galle

 
 
 

Colonial Galle 		 The south coasts major town is Galle, whose oldest landmark is the massive Portuguese and Dutch fort, in which the central city is contained. 

Galle's geographical location on the world’s sea route certainly made it an important port of call for centuries between the Middle East and the orient. The town thus became an emporium of foreign trade with a wealthy and highly cosmopolitan population. 

Places to visit in Galle should be the New Orient Hotel. It is neither new nor oriental but constructed in 1684, was once the Dutch command headquarters. A walk around the ramparts will show the old cannon mounts, the main gate, government house, Groote Kerk Church to name but a few historical sights.