Zwart Bastion — Attraction in Galle

The history of the Galle Fort goes back to 1588 when king Rajasinghe I (1581–93) of Sitawaka attacked the Portuguese capital of Colombo forcing them to retreat to Galle, one of the flourishing ports from the ancient times. Here they built a small fort out of palm trees, coral stones and mud. They called it the Santa Cruz and later in 1625, extended it with a watch tower and three bastions and a Fortaleza to guard the harbour.

After the Portuguese conceded Galle to Dutch in 1640, the fort was expanded to its current size in 1643 and they called Santa Cruz the “Black Fort” or ” Zwart Fort” ( Zwart Bastian). Why this Bastian was called the Black Fort is debatable, while some believe this was due the continuous thick curls of smoke emanating from cannons and guns in the Bastian and others believe that the name is due to being the location used as the holding cell for African slaves brought to the island by the Dutch.

Around 2000-2001, a section of the Black Fort, and on top of it, a number of ancient prison cells collapsed and a section of the Sailors Bastion was washed out, due to high seas. The Sailors Bastion is the only one, which is not protected by coral reefs. It was therefore vulnerable for high waves. The Central Cultural Fund (CCF) undertook conservation works and in 2006 funded by Netherlands and now has been completed.

The official residence of the Senior DIG of police for Southern Province and his office is located inside this ancient Black Fort. Ealier you had to take special permission of the DIG’s office to access this site. But now this site is open to the public. A foot path has been built across the DIG’s office land with sign boards...

This is an old Fort built by the Portuguese in 1625 using the material collected from the neighbouring villages subject to renovations at several intervals. This is the strongest part of the Galle Fort. The Portuguese Smithy where the weapons were manufactured was located here and the charcoal smoke blackened the walls. When the Dutch took over, they called it the Zwart Fort or 'Black Fort. Its original Portuguese name was Fortaleza. The Black Fort has features of a real Portuguese fortress including tunnels, secret cubicles, masonry work constructed at different strategic points.

Here, the openings on the lower terrain indicate that they were meant for the eight cannons placed in the direction of the Port. The upper levels of the curved ramparts connect to the lower levels by a subterranean passage plastered and white-washed, making room for any soldier to comfortably get at the lower levels. This bastion has several masonry entry points now surrounded by recent additional constructions.

The outer wall of the bastion is built of coral stone using lime and sand as binding material. The Black Bastion emphasises the antiquity and the features of the oldest and strongest construction of the Fortaleza form of the Portuguese part of this...

Tucked away in the lesser-explored corners of the Galle Fort, the Black Fort stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Often overshadowed by its more prominent Bastions, this hidden gem deserves a spotlight for its historical significance and breathtaking views.

The Black Fort holds the distinction of being the oldest part of the Galle Fort, a structure that bears witness to the bygone era of Portuguese colonization. Situated inconspicuously just behind the Police Station, its confusing entrance belies the historical marvel that awaits within. Keep a look out for the signs!

Perched strategically, it offers a panoramic vista of the Galle harbour and the spot where the Portuguese first made landfall on Sri Lanka. It is an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

The fort, is quite miniature in size with its sturdy weathered architecture and little garrisons cells used by the British. There are a number of plaques explaining the history...