The Old Dutch Fort in Negombo is probably the least attractive of all the Dutch Forts spread across the island of Sri Lanka. This is no fault of the area, though. But simply because it was the recipient of most attention during colonial times with everyone attempting to gain control of it, and neglect after independence. Thus, you will not see quirky little shops lining the non-existent alleyways in here. Nor will there be a single beach hotel in Sri Lanka that has decided to establish itself within the premises of the Fort. What you will see is the ruin of an age-old story, solid evidence of the battering the structure received as it was passed along from hand to hand.
Although it is called the Dutch Fort, the original Fort was the construction of the Portuguese, which was then taken over by the Dutch in 1644. The original Fort was then taken down, and a new Fort was built in its place. According to historical records, there had been a moat surrounding the Fort, as well as a drawbridge. The defence mechanism was cannon-based, and some remnant of this can be seen to date. When the English took over the control of the island, they tore down most of the Fort, using the stones to build a prison. Thus, only a part of the eastern wall can be seen today, along with a clock tower that is a British addition.
The history of the Fort is so rooted in the country’s identity that people from all over come to visit the Fort. From places like Amagi Beach Marawila to occupants of the nameless B&B that is two minutes away from the Fort, there is an influx of visitors on a daily basis to admire and lament the architectural wonder that once was.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+