A maritime archaeology museum inside a 1671 Dutch warehouse above the fort's Old Gate.

Overview

Housed in a great Dutch warehouse built into the fort ramparts above the Old Gate, this museum tells the story of the Indian Ocean's trade, shipwrecks and marine life around Galle. Displays include artefacts recovered from centuries-old wrecks, traditional fishing craft, and exhibits on the region's coral and sea creatures. The thick-walled colonial interior is a cool retreat from the midday heat.

History

The building dates to 1671 as a Dutch commercial warehouse; the museum first opened to the public on 9 May 1992. It was badly damaged by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and was restored and reopened with support from the Netherlands.