April 9, 2026 – Galle, Sri Lanka

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Galle, Sri Lanka.

GALLE, SRI LANKA
A Living Legacy of Trade, Empire, and Culture

Galle is a jewel of Sri Lanka’s southern coast—an ancient melting pot where centuries of global trade
and European political influence have left an indelible mark. At the heart of the city stands Galle Fort, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest remaining fortress in Asia, built by European occupiers.
Occupied successively by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British until the late 19th century, the fort rises
between land and sea, surrounded on three sides by the Indian Ocean. Its architecture vividly illustrates
the interaction between Portuguese design concepts and local building traditions, a synthesis that was
further strengthened during later periods of colonial rule.

The Dutch, who assumed control in the mid‑17th century, extensively fortified the city from 1649 onward,
transforming Galle into a major defensive stronghold and commercial hub. Walking today through the
narrow, atmospheric streets of the fort, visitors encounter a living townscape lined with fine surviving
examples of Dutch colonial architecture. Among the most notable landmarks is the 18th‑century
Dutch Reformed Church, renowned for its splendid carved wooden memorials dedicated to prominent
commanders of Galle.

Trade lay at the heart of Galle’s prosperity, with cinnamon defining its commercial legacy. While the
Portuguese harvested wild cinnamon during the 15th and 16th centuries, the Dutch formalized and
expanded the industry by establishing a Cinnamon Department, systematizing cultivation and planting
cinnamon across the villages surrounding Galle.

According to historian James Emerson Tennent, Galle may have been the ancient seaport of Tarshish, from
which King Solomon is said to have obtained ivory, peacocks, and other precious goods. Cinnamon was
exported from Sri Lanka as early as 1400 BC, and since the very word cinnamon is of Hebrew origin, Galle
may well have been one of the world’s earliest spice entrepôts.

Today, Galle Port remains one of Sri Lanka’s most active regional ports, seamlessly blending modern
commercial relevance with historic charm. Other prominent landmarks include the city’s natural harbor,
the National Maritime Museum, St. Mary’s Cathedral, founded by Jesuit priests, and one of the country’s
most important Shiva temples—all contributing to Galle’s enduring identity as a city where history
continues to live and breathe.

Excursion – Private Tour.

We visited the Japanese Peace Pagoda.

Then, to the Stilt Fishermen.

And, on to a Turtle Rescue Center and Hatchery.

And, a visit to Fort Galle.

Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.