Mannar Fort

Gayantha Fernando - Google

Mannar Fort is a centuries old monument, reflecting the architectural significance of a bygone colonial era. Built with blocks of granite and bricks, the quadrangular fort was founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and later fortified by the Dutch in 1696. The British occupied the fortress a century later, in 1795, following the surrender of the Dutch.

During the Sri Lankan civil war, it is stated that the fort was used as a campsite by the army, and had been targeted several times during the war. However, the heritage value was not all lost. The roofless remains of a chapel, dungeon and the Dutch bell tower still stands, and are currently under renovation to bring it back to its former glory. Take a stroll down the ramparts and discover the colonial grandeur of the centuries old fortress.