Matara Fort, Portuguese-Dutch fort in Matara, Sri Lanka
Matara Fort is a coastal fortification with walls running about 240 meters long and reaching 5 meters high, built from local granite and coral materials. The structure follows the shoreline and integrates natural coastal features with man-made defenses.
Portuguese forces built the original fort in 1595 to protect their trading interests along the southern coast. The Dutch took over the site in 1640 and rebuilt it into a stronger defensive structure.
The Reformed Church from 1706 within the fort walls is one of the oldest working Protestant places of worship in the country. It shows how European settlers maintained their traditions in this southern coastal town.
A morning visit offers the clearest views of the Indian Ocean from the elevated sections of the fortification. The paths around the walls are walkable, though the terrain is uneven in places and requires suitable footwear.
The fort was built between a lagoon and the ocean, which made its defensive position particularly strong. This geographical situation later led to the construction of an additional star-shaped fort for extra reinforcement.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
