Sri Lanka’s Galle culture is one of the oldest and most vibrant cultures in the world. Located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, the city of Galle has been a major trading hub since the early days of maritime trade. The Galle culture is a unique mix of influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, as well as the indigenous Sinhalese culture. The culture of Galle is a reflection of its rich history and is seen in its architecture, food, and art.
History
The city of Galle was first established by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It quickly became a major trading center, and the Portuguese built a large fort to protect the city. The Dutch took control of the city in 1640 and built a new fort, which still stands today. The British occupied the city in 1796 and made it the capital of the British colony of Ceylon. The British left in 1948, but their influence is still seen in the architecture and culture of Galle.
Architecture
The architecture of Galle reflects the city’s rich history. The Dutch fort is the most iconic structure in the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort is surrounded by a wall and is filled with colonial-style buildings, churches, and monuments. The city also has a number of British-style buildings, including the Galle Clock Tower and the Galle Lighthouse.
Food
The food of Galle is a reflection of its diverse culture. The city is known for its spicy curries, which are made with a variety of local spices and ingredients. Seafood is also popular, as Galle is located on the coast. Other popular dishes include hoppers, a type of pancake made with fermented rice flour, and kottu roti, a dish of chopped roti bread with vegetables and spices.
Arts and Crafts
The city of Galle is known for its vibrant art and craft scene. The city is home to a number of art galleries, which feature works by local and international artists. There are also numerous craft shops where visitors can purchase handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles.
Conclusion
The culture of Galle is a unique mix of influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, as well as the indigenous Sinhalese culture. The city’s architecture, food, and art are all reflections of its rich history. Galle is a vibrant city that is worth exploring for anyone interested in learning more about Sri Lanka’s culture and history.