National Maritime Museum | Galle

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is located within the historic Galle Fort in southern Sri Lanka. This museum offers visitors an in-depth look into the maritime history of Sri Lanka and the surrounding region, reflecting the country's strategic location along key maritime trade routes. It houses a fascinating collection of exhibits showcasing the island’s rich naval history, from ancient times through to the colonial era and beyond.

Overview

• Location: Galle Fort, Galle, Sri Lanka.
• Established: 1992.
• Theme: Maritime history, naval exploration, shipwrecks, and coastal culture.
• Significance: The museum highlights Sri Lanka's long association with seafaring, trade, and naval defense, positioning it as one of the most important cultural institutions in the area.

History of the Museum

Origins:

• The National Maritime Museum was established in 1992 by the Sri Lanka Department of Archaeology to preserve and showcase the maritime heritage of the island.
• The museum is housed in a building that was originally a Dutch warehouse dating back to the colonial era, giving the structure its unique historical character.

Renovation:

• The museum underwent renovations in the early 2000s and again after the 2004 tsunami, when much of Galle and its fort were damaged.

Purpose:

• The museum serves as an educational institution, preserving and sharing the maritime history of Sri Lanka, its coastal ecosystems, and its interactions with seafaring nations such as the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.

Exhibits and Collections

Shipwrecks:

• The museum showcases a significant collection of artifacts recovered from shipwrecks around Sri Lanka. These include ceramics, coins, and cargo remnants from ships that sank off the coast.
• One of the museum’s highlights is the display of artifacts from the Portuguese and Dutch-era ships.

Nautical Charts and Maps:

• The museum features a series of old maritime maps and charts from various colonial powers, showing the development of Sri Lanka as a strategic point in global maritime trade.

Naval Models:

• Several model ships representing vessels used by the Dutch, Portuguese, and British are on display, offering a glimpse into the shipbuilding techniques of different eras.
• The collection also includes models of traditional Sri Lankan fishing boats and larger maritime vessels.

Marine Life:

• The museum has a section dedicated to Sri Lanka’s marine biodiversity, featuring preserved specimens of the island’s underwater species, including fish, coral, and shells.
• The importance of Sri Lanka’s coral reefs, marine protected areas, and their role in the local economy is also highlighted.

Artifacts from Ancient Times:

• There are exhibits that go back to Sri Lanka's ancient maritime history, showcasing items such as early fishing tools, ancient navigational instruments, and jewelry found in coastal archaeological sites.

Historical Naval Equipment:

• The museum displays old naval cannons, military uniforms, and weaponry used during the colonial conflicts, reflecting the island’s importance as a strategic military base.

Architectural Features

Building History:

• The museum is housed in a Dutch colonial-era warehouse. This two-story building was originally used for storing goods and was later converted into the museum to reflect the importance of Galle as a trade hub.
• The architecture of the building itself is part of the attraction, with its stone walls, arched windows, and wooden beams preserving the colonial charm of the era.

Exhibition Halls:

• The museum has multiple exhibition rooms, each dedicated to different aspects of Sri Lanka’s maritime history. The halls are spacious and well-lit, allowing visitors to easily explore the exhibits.

Visiting the Museum

How to Get There:

• Located within the Galle Fort, the museum is easily accessible by walking from anywhere inside the fort. It is a short distance from the Galle Lighthouse and other major attractions in the area.
• For those coming from Galle city, a tuk-tuk or taxi can take you to the fort in a few minutes.

Opening Hours:

• The museum is typically open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• It is closed on public holidays and may have shorter hours on certain days.

Entrance Fee:

• The entrance fee is fairly affordable, with tickets available for both locals and foreign tourists.
• Fees may vary, so it’s a good idea to check in advance for updated pricing.

Best Time to Visit:

• Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit, as the museum is less crowded and the weather is more pleasant.
• It’s advisable to visit during the off-peak tourist season to avoid large crowds.

Things to Do Around the National Maritime Museum

Explore Galle Fort:

• The museum is part of the Galle Fort complex, so visitors can easily explore other attractions such as the Galle Lighthouse, Dutch Reformed Church, and Old Dutch Hospital.

Ramparts Walk:

• Take a leisurely stroll along the fort’s ramparts, offering beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding coastline.

Visit Galle Clock Tower:

• The nearby Galle Clock Tower is another historical landmark and provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Shopping and Dining:

• The fort area is full of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, where you can shop for souvenirs, enjoy local Sri Lankan dishes, or relax with a cup of tea.

Conclusion

The National Maritime Museum is a vital destination for anyone interested in exploring Sri Lanka's maritime heritage. Through its collection of artifacts, models, and exhibits, the museum offers a comprehensive insight into the island’s role in naval history, from ancient times through to the colonial era and beyond. Combined with its strategic location in the historic Galle Fort, the museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into Sri Lanka’s seafaring past while enjoying the colonial charm of the area. Whether you're a history lover, a maritime enthusiast, or simply seeking an educational experience, this museum is a must-visit.