The Batticaloa Fort, located on Puliyavanthivu Island, is a beautiful old-time fort in Sri Lanka. The fort was a major sight of trade deals during the times of colonialism and imperial powers. Colonial powers such as the Dutch, the Portuguese, and the British had control over this historical monument at some point during their reigns. The fort is well-known for its colonial history and is therefore very popular among history lovers and for those who like taking walks through sights of historic importance.
History Of The Batticaloa Fort
Image Credit: Anton Croos for Wikimedia Commons
The 17th century was a time of European supremacy worldwide. European forces, such as the Dutch and the British, were expanding their empires worldwide, and Southeast Asia was no stranger to this phenomenon. In Sri Lanka, The Batticaloa Fort was built in 1628 by the Portuguese, who occupied Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, at the time. Its main importance was administrative, as it housed many buildings of administrative significance.
The Fort has been controlled by many European powers over the years. The Batticaloa Fort was under the Portuguese till 1638, was then transferred from them to the Dutch in 1638 and stayed with them for over a century till 1745 when the British came and took over from them. In 1665, however, the Dutch rendered the Fort useless and destroyed it. However, it was later rebuilt, reworked and handed over to the British. In this power transfer, the Fort saw many changes but remained a hub of fundamental work within the empires.
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More Places To See In Batticaloa
Along with spending a mesmerising day at Batticaloa Fort, there are myriad nearby places that you can also add to your itinerary. For a hassle-free travel experience, here are the places to visit near Batticaloa Fort.
1. Kallady Bridge
Image Credit: Anton Croos for Wikimedia Commons
Built over the Batticaloa Lagoon, the Kallady Bridge is a sight. Visitors expect a regular steel bridge over a body of water when told of the bridge, but what is interesting is that the Lagoon is famous for its ‘singing fish’. The Batticaloa Lagoon houses fish that emit a melodious sound that sounds as beautiful as a guitar. Visitors visit the bridge especially to hear the sound made by the fish and can also hire boats for the same. According to locals, the sound of the fish can be heard clearly if one end of the oar is in water and the other is held close to the ear. It surely is one of the most interesting places to visit in Batticaloa.
2. St Mary’s Cathedral
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The St Mary’s Cathedral in Batticaloa makes for an amazing visit for those looking to experience local Sri Lankan culture regarding their religious expressions. The 200-year-old Catholic Cathedral is built in terms of local Sri Lankan culture, embodying local craftsmanship. It is located in the middle of the town, making it very convenient in terms of accessibility and proximity. Its pristine blue colour also adds to the uniqueness of its architecture.
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3. Kattankudy Heritage Museum
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Southeast Asian culture tells many tales about the days that have been passed. The Kattankudy Heritage Museum is one such place that tells tales of Sri Lanka’s past and its impact on the country’s current culture. The three-storey museum is built to shed light on Arab and Muslim traders in the area. It tells cultural tales through models, artefacts, maps, displays etc. and is a must-visit for those wanting to delve deeper into the history of the lovely island nation.
4. Batticaloa Lighthouse
Image Credit: Tharsan Sriranganathan for Wikimedia Commons
The Batticaloa Lighthouse is one of the most untouched places on the list, as it isn’t open to the public yet. However, visitors can hire boats and take a tour of its surroundings. The lighthouse and its surroundings make for an incredible place for pictures and videos.
Further Read: Batticaloa Restaurants
Now that you know more about the Batticaloa Fort and other popular attractions nearby don’t wait another minute to book your trip now. Book a trip to Sri Lanka with your friends, family, significant other or yourself and prepare to be amazed by the country.
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Cover Image Credit: Anton Croos for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Batticaloa Fort
What should I know about the Batticaloa Fort?
The Batticaloa Fort is a fort built by Portuguese conquerors in the 17th century. It later fell into the hands of the Dutch and British, each leaving their withstanding mark on its architecture and history which are present even today.
Does the Batticaloa Fort stand out in any way?
Yes, the Batticaloa Fort is very unique in many ways. Unlike many other forts in Sri Lanka, Batticaloa Fort is located on a slim peninsular land, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the Batticaloa Lagoon. Its location allowed it to serve not only as a defence structure during olden times but also give it an aesthetic appeal, making it a must-visit for nature lovers as well.
What can I see at Batticaloa Fort?
Within the fort's walls, visitors can explore various historical structures, including ramparts, bastions, and a Dutch church. The fort also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a picturesque destination for photography enthusiasts.
Is Batticaloa Fort accessible to the public?
Yes, Batticaloa Fort is open to the public, and visitors can explore its grounds during daylight hours. However, since the fort still houses administrative buildings of relative importance, some areas may be prohibited for safety and security reasons. It is therefore important for visitors to follow signage and respect the rules of the place.
What is the cultural significance of Batticaloa town?
Batticaloa is the hub of all things culture in the heart of the island country of Sri Lanka. Often referred to as 'Batti' by locals, it is a bustling town known for its vibrant display of local culture, untouched beaches, and delectable cuisine.
Is the Batticaloa district very large?
Yes! Batticaloa amounts to 3.8% of Sri Lanka’s total land area. It covers a land area of approximately 2854 square kilometres and a nautical area of about 229 square kilometres. It is the central portion of the Eastern Province in the country, making it relevant culturally as well as geographically.
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