Tales ofGalle

The city of Galle has a history that predates the Christian era, when it was a popular trading port used by Indian, Arab and Chinese merchants. The presence of so many varied nationalities resulted in the early city being a multicultural haven. The significance of the port of Galle in the shipping routes of the Indian ocean meant that it attracted the attention of the European colonizers who arrived in Sri Lanka during the 16th century. Galle became an important strategic location for the Portuguese, Dutch and British empires, and it continued to develop as a city during the colonial period. The tales that surround the city of Galle and its borders range from the mythical to historical. Check out the tales featured here to learn more about the fascinating past of this charming coastal town.