Sunday, May 7, 2017

Matara Fortress


Matara history cannot be logged into an article, because it has long and descriptive stories and incidents even not enclosed yet. Matara Fortress is located in the heart of matara city. It is considered as the Icon of Matara City since always when someone call the name Matara effortlessly remember the picture of Matara Fortress and Clock tower.

    During 15th and 16th centuries Portuguese and Dutch were ruling the Southern part of Sri Lanka. In 1954 Portuguese had started the constructions of Matara Fortress. The reason behind the idea to build a fortress in Matara can be assumed as Matara was significant port and coastal line which the administration needed to protect.


    But unfortunately or fortunately they were unable to build up more than the foundation of the fortress. Dutch arrived to Sri Lanka and made an agreement with the Kandy King to alleviate Portuguese from Sri Lanka. After that Dutch captured the Southern part of the country. Meanwhile they again started the construction of Matara fortress and completed in 1640.

    Today if you visit matara city near the Main Bus Stan you can enter to the Fortress. There are two entrances, one near the Nilwala river by the Army Camp. The other one can reach along the beach side. about 15ft wall and rampart of fortress makes pride for this monument.

   Now almost old constructions have been destroyed or renovated by the administration and residents. Old Reperamadu Church, Old Ceylon Postal Box, and several constructions still remaining in the fortress. 

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