Negombo Dutch Fort

About this Attraction

Negombo, a coastal city with a rich colonial past, had always intrigued me. So, during my last visit, I made it a point to explore the Negombo Dutch Fort—an enduring symbol of Sri Lanka's colonial history. What I thought would be a simple sightseeing trip turned into a captivating journey through time.

The Journey to the Fort

The fort is located near the famous Negombo fish market, so the aroma of freshly caught seafood accompanied me as I approached. The lively sounds of fishmongers bargaining with customers provided a stark contrast to the silent, weathered walls of the fort that stood just a short distance away.

At first glance, the remains didn’t look particularly grand. However, as I stepped closer, the intricate details of the architecture became more apparent. The main entrance gate, adorned with the Dutch coat of arms, stood as a silent testament to the fort's colonial origins.

Walking Through History

Walking through the archway, the thick coral and limestone walls immediately transported me to the 17th century. The Dutch East India Company constructed this fort with military precision, but an artistic flair in the craftsmanship caught my attention.

I ran my fingers along the walls, feeling the rough texture of coral stone—evidence of the materials sourced from the nearby ocean. My guide explained how these walls once safeguarded the Dutch from Portuguese forces and later served as a prison during British rule.

Exploring the Bastions

The fort originally featured three bastions:

• Zwart Bastion
• Kruys Bastion
• Hoogerwerf Bastion

I climbed up to the Hoogerwerf Bastion, the highest point of the fort. The panoramic view from the top was breathtaking. The bustling Negombo Lagoon stretched to one side while the Indian Ocean shimmered on the other. Standing there, I imagined Dutch soldiers once standing guard in the same spot, scanning the horizon for approaching ships.

The bastion also provided a unique vantage point of the Esplanade—a field where cricket matches are often held. Watching a local game from atop the bastion added a lighthearted touch to my historical exploration.

The Dutch Cemetery: A Quiet Reminder of the Past

Descending from the bastion, I headed toward the Dutch Cemetery. The cemetery had an almost eerie stillness, in contrast to the lively city just beyond the walls. Weathered tombstones, some partially covered by moss, bore Dutch inscriptions that hinted at lives lived long ago.

Reading the names and dates made me pause and reflect. These individuals had travelled across oceans, lived, and died here—far from their homeland. It was a sobering reminder of the island's colonial past and the human stories behind historical events.

The Commandant's House: A Peek into Colonial Life

Next, I visited the Commandant's House, a restored colonial mansion that now serves as a museum. The architecture was impressive, with grand columns and wide verandas reminiscent of a bygone era. Inside, exhibits displayed artefacts from Negombo's colonial days—old maps, Dutch coins, and items once used by the soldiers stationed here.

I stood for a while near a window, imagining the commandant himself gazing out at the sea centuries ago. The house offered a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of colonial administrators who once governed this coastal city.

The Anglican Church: A Touch of British Influence

The Anglican Church within the fort complex was a pleasant surprise. Built in 1874, it stood as a symbol of the British influence that followed Dutch rule. The architecture had a distinctly Gothic style, with pointed arches and a stunning stained-glass window depicting scenes from the life of Christ.

The church's calm interior provided a peaceful space to sit and reflect. The faint scent of aged wood and the play of sunlight through the colourful stained glass created a serene atmosphere, making it one of the most tranquil spots in the fort.

The Fort's Modern Role

As I wandered through the fort's remaining structures, I learned that a portion of the site still functions as a prison today. This modern-day reality gave the visit a sense of continuity—history wasn’t just preserved here; it was still being lived, albeit in a different form.

Reflections by the Bay

Before leaving, I took a short walk to the nearby Negombo Lagoon. The sea breeze was refreshing after the heat of the fort. From the lagoon's edge, I turned back for a final glimpse of the Dutch Fort.

Standing resilient against time, the crumbling walls reminded me of the island's enduring spirit. This fort, once a stage for colonial power struggles, now stood quietly as a historical sentinel, sharing its story with anyone willing to listen.

Practical Tips for Future Visitors

• Timing: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Accessibility: The fort is easily accessible from Negombo town and is close to the fish market.
• Essentials: Wear comfortable shoes, as the bastions and walls require a bit of climbing.
• Nearby Attractions: After visiting the fort, consider exploring St. Mary’s Church or enjoying a boat ride through the Negombo Lagoon.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Negombo Dutch Fort was a walk through centuries of history. From Portuguese origins and Dutch resilience to British adaptations, each stone seemed to whisper tales of the past. The coral walls, the Dutch Cemetery, and the panoramic views from the bastions painted a vivid picture of Negombo's colonial heritage.

If you're a history enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring places with layered stories, Negombo Dutch Fort is a destination that should be on your list. It’s not just about old walls and relics—it's about standing where history was written and feeling its echoes in every breeze that sweeps through the fort's weathered corridors.

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NEGOMBO WEATHER

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