Galle, a charming coastal city in Sri Lanka, boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. Its iconic Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to colonial influence. Explore pristine beaches, immerse in cultural festivals, and savor local cuisine amidst the old-world charm of Galle.
All Saints' Church in Galle Fort is a beautiful Anglican church with a rich history dating back to the British colonial period in Sri Lanka. Constructed between 1868 and 1871, this stunning Gothic Revival-style church is a prominent architectural landmark within the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Designed by James George Smither, the church was built using local stone and is noted for its strikingly detailed design, which reflects the influence of British ecclesiastical architecture.
Tourists visiting All Saints' Church can experience the peaceful atmosphere of this still-active place of worship. The church’s exterior is characterized by its pointed arches, stained glass windows, and a tall bell tower. Inside, the church features an intricately carved wooden altar and beautiful pews made of local timber, reflecting the craftsmanship of the colonial period. The marble plaques on the walls commemorate various British residents who lived in the area during the colonial era, adding to the historical significance of the building.
Visitors are often drawn to the church’s stunning stained glass windows, which depict biblical scenes in vibrant colors, casting colorful patterns of light on the interior. The serene and well-preserved atmosphere makes All Saints’ Church an ideal stop for those exploring Galle Fort, offering a quiet retreat from the bustling streets outside.
Located in the heart of Galle Fort, All Saints' Church is within walking distance of other notable landmarks such as the Galle Lighthouse and Dutch Reformed Church, making it an easy addition to any walking tour of the fort. The church not only serves as a place of spiritual reflection but also stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural legacy left by the British in Sri Lanka. It is a must-see for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.
Galle is a city situated on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka, 119 km from Colombo.Galle is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in south and Southeast Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and south Asian traditions. The Galle fort is a world heritage site and the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers.
Galle is a sizeable town, by Sri Lankan standards, and has a population of 91,000, the majority of whom are of Sinhalese ethnicity. There is also a large Sri Lankan Moor minority, particularly in the fort area, which descend from Arab merchants that settled in the ancient port of Galle.
About Southern Province
The Southern Province of Sri Lanka is a small geographic area consisting of the districts of Galle, Matara and Hambantota. Subsistence farming and fishing is the main source of income for the vast majority of the people of this region.
Important landmarks of the Southern Province include the wildlife sanctuaries of the Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, the holy city of Kataragama, and the ancient cities of Tissamaharama, Kirinda and Galle. (Although Galle is an ancient city, almost nothing survives from before the Portuguese invasion.) During the Portuguese period there were two famous Sinhalese poets called Andare who was from Dickwella and Gajaman Nona who was from Denipitiya in Matara District, composing poems on common man.
