Galle Face Green, Urban park along the coast in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Galle Face Green is a lawn along the Indian Ocean in Colombo, Sri Lanka, stretching about 500 meters along the coast. The green space separates the ocean promenade from the main road and offers several paved paths for walkers.
Governor Henry Ward established the site as a recreation area in 1859 and used it for horse races. The open field later served as a gathering point during the independence movement of the 20th century.
The park takes its name from the Dutch word for fortress and refers to the old harbor installation to the south. Kite sellers pull their carts across the lawn in the afternoon and sell colorful kites to children and adults.
Access is possible throughout the day and no entry fee is charged. Snack and drink stands usually open in the late afternoon and stay open past sunset.
The lawn is one of the few places in the city where wind comes directly from the ocean and kites fly particularly well. On calm days you can watch fitness groups training who use the open space for aerobics and yoga.
Location: Colombo
Inception: 1859
GPS coordinates: 6.92655,79.84355
Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:27
Public squares across Asia combine historical significance with contemporary urban life. These spaces have served as centers for commerce, political gatherings and social events for centuries, reflecting the cultural evolution of their regions. Visitors encounter monuments symbolizing national identity, religious sites preserving spiritual traditions, and architecture spanning from imperial dynasties to the present day. Notable examples include Tiananmen Square in Beijing, one of the world's largest public plazas, and Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, a 17th-century masterpiece of Persian urban planning. In Kathmandu, Durbar Square showcases Newari architecture, while Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul merges modern urban design with historical references. Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul sits between Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks, and Rizal Park in Manila commemorates the Philippine independence movement. These squares remain active components of urban life, offering travelers opportunities to experience local customs, street markets and seasonal festivals.
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