- Information
- Traveler Advice
- Forums
48HourVisit.com
Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways. Ad
Having been a colonial stronghold for centuries, Galle is just like a piece of an old European metropolis. The well-preserved Catholic churches, terracotta-tiled roofs on the buildings, and vividly colored walls exude that Old-World charm only a few cities in the world possess. Remainders of its days as a European settlement are still present in Galle making it pop out from amongst the other cities in Sri Lanka.
Galle became a constant settlement of Europeans (the Portuguese, the Dutch, and then the British) because of its strategic location just underneath the island's southwestern curve, and also because of the country's rich supply of spices, which were considered as valuable as gold during the olden days. The port city is the best surviving model of a European fortified city in South Asia, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A good way to learn about the history of Galle is through its museums such as the National Museum and the Historical Mansion. The National Maritime Museum exhibits traditional artifacts and colonial-era products that were used and traded off through the port city like old typewriters, spectacles, etc. Another remarkable, and rather morbid, landmark is the Dutch Reformed Church, located near the fort entrance. The current church was built where the old church had stood, and it still has records of marriages and christenings dating back to the Dutch occupation. The church floors are paved with gravestones from the old Dutch cemetery, dating back to the mid-17th century. An afternoon in the historical landmarks would not be complete without strolling through the Fort Walls. Made to keep at bay the Sri Lankan rogues from the northern territories, the Walls is still a constant favorite for those who fancy a stroll. Following the circuit clockwise will lead to the Old Gate, where the Zwart Bastion, believed to be the oldest of its kind in the city, is located.
Galle Landmarks:
Galle photography
Art Gallery by Communitriper
User blogs:
Cheaper galactic spaceliner unveiled
News from http://news.ph.msn.com/top-stories/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3737940 Richard Branson unveiled Monday a commercial spaceliner offering tourists a cheaper chance to experience the thrill of weightlessness and view the splendor of the Earth from space. The British billionaire hopes to offer tickets aboard his spacecraft at a cost of 200,000 dollars each, giving adventurous ... Read full Blog post
Indonesia Eco Tourism
Tour Itenaray Day 01 BALI - LABUAN BAJO – RINCA ISLAND – KOMODO ISLAND (L.D) Pick up from your hotel in Bali and transfer to the airport, for flight to Labuan Bajo (West Flores) for approximately one and half hours. On arrival in Labuan Bajo airport, will be welcomed and met with our local representative or tour guide. Than transfer to the harbour to catch a boat cross to Rinca ... Read full Blog post
San Gimignano and San Pellegrino
Night falls on the flourishing and industrious San Gimignano, its 72 towers stand on the low roofs of the houses lit by the moon. This is not a luxury travel spot but is something you don't see every day. In the distance the clatter of hooves echoed tired in the Via Francigena. The hand of the blacksmith stops beating, the frame of the weaver becomes silent, the streets of the tank only a concert ... Read full Blog post
An Aerial fiesta in Clark Pampanga
Its a party in the sky as multi colored hot air balloons piloted ny different pilots from various partso of the world participated in this annual gathering. As early as 5am, the 2,500 hectare aviation complex at Clar Economic Zone in Pampanga was already crammedi with excitement. Clusters of hot air balloon participants busily prepare their own balloons for liftoff as they need to take advantage of ... Read full Blog post
In our Magazine
Summer Destination to Avoid: Gulf of Mexico
EPA is failing to do their job monitoring the air and reporting factual data. The people need to be made aware that their lives and long term livelihood are at stake because of the air quality in Gulf of Mexico.
How to Avoid Traveling Troubles
Traveling to a certain destination might not become memorable if there are too many troubles along the way. Remember that even the best trips are usually not trouble-free. Follow these tips that help lessen the hassles.
Unique Toys from Japan
Japan is known for its fascinating, and sometimes, eccentric culture. From anime, karaoke, to advanced technology, the Land of the Rising Sun always has something unique to offer.
