Galle Fort
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Galle Fort

Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Galle is a city on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. It's known for Galle Fort, the fortified old city founded by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century. Stone seawalls, expanded by the Dutch, encircle car-free streets with architecture reflecting Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Notable buildings include the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church. Galle Lighthouse stands on the fort's southeast tip, offering stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean.