Historical Mansion

Galle


More of an antique store than a museum, this Fort townhouse (which dates back to the Dutch days) contains the private collection of a long-time local family. Many exhibits have price tags; look for oodles of colonial artefacts, including collections of antique typewriters, VOC china, spectacles and jewellery. Also look out for craftspeople busy polishing gems and weaving lace; a guide will show you around.

Don't miss the places where plaster has been removed to show how the building was constructed.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Galle attractions

1. Dutch Hospital

0.05 MILES

Now fully restored and home to myriad upmarket boutiques and restaurants, this vast, colonnaded colonial landmark dates from the 18th century. Its size…

2. Aurora Bastion

0.06 MILES

East-facing bastion, with fine views of Galle harbour. Look out for blocks of coral in its walls.

3. Court Square

0.07 MILES

This leafy, shady square is still a hub of legal activity and has several lawyers' chambers.

4. Old Gate

0.1 MILES

A beautifully carved British coat of arms tops the entrance to the Old Gate on the outer side. Inside, the letters VOC, standing for Verenigde…

5. National Maritime Museum

0.1 MILES

Nestled in the old walls, this small museum is worth a quick look for its skeleton of a Bryde's whale and a very useful model that explains how tsunamis…

6. Dutch Governor's House

0.11 MILES

A striking building that dates from 1683, over its doorway is a cockerel and the crest of Galle. It's not open to the public.

7. All Saints Anglican Church

0.11 MILES

A handsome Victorian Gothic structure dating from the mid-19th century. It boasts impressive stained-glass windows, beautifully carved timber arches and…

8. Marine Archeological Museum

0.12 MILES

This spacious maritime museum occupies a colossal old spice warehouse built by the Dutch and dating back to the late 17th century. The structure was…