Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications is situated on a small rocky promontory on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese as a fortified town, Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century under Dutch colonial rule.

World Heritage partnerships for conservation. Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in today’s complex world, where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development, unsustainable tourism practices, neglect, natural calamities, pollution, political instability, and conflict.

The Mission visited the Old Town of Galle, as well as a number of other properties affected by the Tsunami, accompanied by the staff of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and National Heritage. In Galle, the Tsunami caused the demolition of the Archaeological Marine Unit, and the washing away of its collection and equipment.

Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century, before the arrival of the British. It is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and South-East Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and South Asian traditions.

Activites. The World Heritage Centre is at the forefront of the international community’s efforts to protect and preserve. Browse all activities

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Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century, before the arrival of the British. It is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in ...

Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century, before the arrival of the British. It is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in ...

This question is for testing whether you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submission. Audio is not supported in your browser.

Zanzibar Stone Town Heritage Society (ZSTHS) has implemented EU funded project “Zanzibar Built heritage job creation’’ which enhanced skills and competences of workers, specialized in tourism operations and unskilled youths in conservation and …