Delft Island Fort, Portuguese colonial fort in Delft Island, Sri Lanka

Delft Island Fort is a Portuguese colonial structure located on an island off the coast of Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The fort was built using limestone and coral materials found locally, with walls containing both rectangular and square segments that served defensive and residential purposes.

The fort was built in the 16th century by Portuguese colonizers to establish control over this coastal region. The Dutch later took over the structure and established military barracks in the surrounding area.

Locals call the ruins Meekaman fort after the Karaiyar king Meekaman, to whom tradition attributes the building, though it was probably Portuguese. The island itself was Ilha das Vacas, "Island of the Cows", to the Portuguese before the Dutch renamed it Delft. The Dutch built a barrack beside the fort.

The fort is accessible only by ferry from the mainland, with regular boat services available from nearby jetties. Plan your visit according to ferry schedules and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as crossing conditions can vary with the season.

The fort is also called Meekaman fort, after the Karaiyar king to whom tradition attributes its construction, though it was probably built by the Portuguese. The island itself was renamed Delft by the Dutch, after the Dutch city.