National Maritime Museum

Galle


Nestled in the old walls, this small museum is worth a quick look for its skeleton of a Bryde's whale and a very useful model that explains how tsunamis occur. There are also some dusty displays demonstrating old fishing techniques and examples of local boats.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Galle attractions

1. Old Gate

0.02 MILES

A beautifully carved British coat of arms tops the entrance to the Old Gate on the outer side. Inside, the letters VOC, standing for Verenigde…

2. Marine Archeological Museum

0.04 MILES

This spacious maritime museum occupies a colossal old spice warehouse built by the Dutch and dating back to the late 17th century. The structure was…

3. Dutch Governor's House

0.05 MILES

A striking building that dates from 1683, over its doorway is a cockerel and the crest of Galle. It's not open to the public.

4. Bell Tower

0.05 MILES

A small whitewashed bell tower supported by four slim pillars.

5. All Saints Anglican Church

0.06 MILES

A handsome Victorian Gothic structure dating from the mid-19th century. It boasts impressive stained-glass windows, beautifully carved timber arches and…

6. Court Square

0.07 MILES

This leafy, shady square is still a hub of legal activity and has several lawyers' chambers.

7. Dutch Reformed Church

0.07 MILES

Originally built in 1640, the present building dates from 1752. Its floor is paved with gravestones from Dutch cemeteries, while other impressive features…

8. Amangalla

0.09 MILES

The Amangalla was built in 1684 to house the Dutch governor and officers. Later, as the New Oriental Hotel, it was the lodging of choice for 1st-class P&O…