Arippu Fort, Colonial fort ruins in Mannar District, Sri Lanka
Arippu Fort is a square-shaped stone fortification with two bastions positioned at opposite corners, located near the Gulf of Mannar coastline. The structure displays the typical layout of a coastal defensive post from that era.
The Portuguese built this fortification originally as a defensive installation, which later fell under Dutch control in 1658. It served to protect the regional pearl diving operations.
The fort features in local stories about Tamil Queen Alli Raani, who according to regional tradition governed the Mannar territory from this location. These tales remain part of the oral heritage passed down by residents.
The ruins are located about 16 kilometers south of Mannar Island and can be reached on foot or by vehicle through the region. The site sits in a flat coastal area, so access is straightforward, though shade is limited.
British prisoner Robert Knox reached the fort in 1679 after spending 19 years in captivity. His later published account of Ceylon became one of the earliest European records of the island.
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