Matara Star Fort, Star fort in Matara, Sri Lanka
The fort extends across the eastern bank of the Nilwala River, featuring six pointed corners with spaces for twelve large cannons at each point.
The Dutch East India Company constructed this fortification in 1763 after the main Matara fort proved vulnerable to attacks from the Kandyan forces.
The structure represents colonial military engineering with its granite and coral stone walls, measuring 4.3 meters in width and surrounding a central courtyard.
The Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka maintains the fort as a museum, displaying historical artifacts including weapons, uniforms, coins, and photographs.
A water-filled moat of 3.1 meters depth encircles the fort, which historically contained crocodiles as an additional defense measure.
Location: Matara
Inception: 1763
GPS coordinates: 5.94806,80.54830
Latest update: March 2, 2025 22:39
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