The city of Galle is located in the Southern tip of Sri Lanka. Settled in the 18th century by the Dutch, the city became the main port of the island Before being overtaken by the increasing development of Colombo. Today Galle is the best known for its fortifications, which are among the largest European construction and architecture throughout Asia. Being a World Heritage Site, this city has retained the colonial spirit which existed for centuries.
Despite its 100 000 inhabitants, this large city in Southern Sri Lanka has retained its ancestral customs and has preserved a rich heritage. Among its most beautiful admirations, the Old Dutch colonial houses stand tall as rich historical monuments.Visitors will be able to observe the Government House and the oldest hotel in the city, the New Oriental.
The fortifications are of great architectural beauty, it is advisable to do the walk of the rampart that offer a view of all the building and numerous breathtaking landscapes. Southern Sri Lanka was heavily influenced by the colonial period, the National Museum, located near Church Street gives better understanding about the habits and customs of the local people.
As one of the oldest cities in Sri Lanka, Galle harbors architectural phenomenon. However, it would be a shame not to notice that behind its strengths is the natural wealth of the island. The nature lovers can have long walks a few kilometers from the ancient fortresses and Experience the fun of the beach of the Unawatuna. Extending over several kilometers, it offers sumptuous landscapes. Furthermore, it is the ideal Place for diving enthusiasts who can explore the marine life. If you want to know more about the Sri Lanka n fisheries customs, can probably find some local practice fishing on stilts who knows everything you want to know.
Galle is one of the cities that have been devastated by the 2004 tsunami, yet its fortifications are still in good condition and people who are always smiling deserve a visit for its hospitality and friendliness.
The Galle National Museum is established in the oldest Dutch building of the Galle fort, constructed in 1856.To educate the public on the traditional cultural heritage of the Southern Sri Lanka, the Department of National Museums developed this museum and opened to the public on 31 March 1986.Galle National Museum displays a broad range of archeological and anthropological objects inherited in the Southern region. A collection of traditional masks used in various rituals, a collection of ornamental objects made up of turtle shells, ancient wooden carvings, and a Beeralu collection are outstanding and attractive exhibits in the museum. The influence of Dutch is depicted by the equipment used in Dutch Ships that came to the Galle Harbor.
Galle season is not merely a carnival meant just for making fun and revelry. It is a regeneration of an age-old pageantry of Galle. It aims at preserving, conserving and further fostering the magnificent and pristine culture and tradition intrinsic to the ancient port city of Galle.
Galle Port was the nerve center of trade and commerce of Sri Lanka until it lost its dominance in the late 19th century with the emergence of Colombo Harbor as the principal commercial port of the country.
Traders from all over the world called at the Galle Port for several commercial transactions. It was the most preferred destination for merchants from Asian. Eastern and far-Eastern regions for their assorted dealings. Galle was globally renowned for world’s finest gemstones, spices, and scented woods, etc..
Galle season with the noble intention to promote the prestige and splendor of New Galle with are fined touch of its original antiquity. As envisioned in organizational strategy. Galle season is a lively display of culture through music, dance, art, folklore, architecture, crafts, food, jewelry, fashion, photography, agriculture and floriculture and education. Ornamental Horticulture and Organic Agriculture Exhibition including Export Agriculture Spice Market will be held at Galle Dharmapala Park while Samanala Grounds will host trade stalls, industries, commercials and financial establishments and Southern provincial council exhibitions and trade stalls. Additionally, there will be carnival activities and musical shows.
Some major attractions of the event include lace, craft, photography, antique, gem and jewelry and book exhibitions are scheduled to be held at Galle Fort Old Dutch ware house with Old Crocks Exhibition and hackneys and carts display on the green in front of ramparts.
Galle Fort Courts Square will be venue for Ruhunu Ranga Sobha, dance, music and drama performance, fashion show, traditional dance performances, dramas and nadagams, historical pageants, bridal show and food courts. Water Sports and Navy Exhibition will be held at Galle Old Jetty. Moreover, a Film Festival is also programmed.
