Lighthouse

Galle


Guarding against the rocks at the southern end of the Galle promontory, this elegant 27m working lighthouse dates from 1939, though there's been a lighthouse in Galle since 1848.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Galle attractions

1. Point Utrecht Bastion

0.01 MILES

The eastern section of Galle's wall ends at the Point Utrecht Bastion, close to the powder magazine, which bears a Dutch inscription from 1782. Today this…

2. Lighthouse Beach

0.04 MILES

A slim swathe of sand right on the east side of the Fort. However it's not that great for a dip as there are rocks offshore and the beach is often…

3. Meeran Mosque

0.05 MILES

Facing the lighthouse, this beautifully maintained whitewashed building is a highly unusual construction combining eclectic architectural features that…

4. Aurora Bastion

0.13 MILES

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

5. Flag Rock

0.14 MILES

Flag Rock, at the southernmost end of the Fort, was once a Portuguese bastion. Today it is easily the most popular place to catch a sunset. During…

6. Dutch Hospital

0.15 MILES

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

7. Historical Mansion

0.16 MILES

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…

8. Court Square

0.22 MILES

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