Information
Landmark: Guayaguayare BeachCity: Mayaro
Country: Trinidad and Tobago
Continent: North America
Guayaguayare Beach, Mayaro, Trinidad and Tobago, North America
All Saints’ Church is an Anglican church located in Galle, Sri Lanka. It is a significant historical and architectural structure within the Galle Fort.
Visual Characteristics
The church is constructed primarily of brick and coral stone, with a white-washed exterior. It features a prominent clock tower and a steeply pitched roof. The architectural style is a blend of Gothic Revival and colonial influences, characterized by pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and a cruciform plan. The interior includes wooden pews and a central nave.
Location & Access Logistics
All Saints’ Church is situated within the Galle Fort, approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Galle city center. Access is via Church Street. Parking is available on surrounding streets within the fort, though spaces can be limited during peak hours. The fort is accessible by foot, bicycle, or tuk-tuk from Galle city. No specific bus lines directly serve the church; visitors typically arrive via public transport to Galle city and then proceed to the fort.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of All Saints’ Church began in 1871 and was completed in 1906. It was built under the direction of the Church Missionary Society. The original purpose was to serve the Anglican congregation within the Galle Fort and surrounding areas. The materials used, such as coral stone, are locally sourced from the coastal environment.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can observe the church's architectural details, including the stained-glass windows and the clock tower. Photography of the exterior and interior is permitted. Services are held regularly, and visitors may attend. The church grounds offer a quiet space for reflection.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available within the church premises. Limited shade is provided by the building's structure and surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the fort. Food vendors and restaurants are located within the Galle Fort, a short walk from the church.
Best Time to Visit
For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting on the church's facade. The best months for visiting Galle are generally from December to March, avoiding the monsoon seasons. There are no tide-specific requirements for visiting the church.
Facts & Legends
A notable historical detail is that the church was built on land previously occupied by a Dutch warehouse. The clock in the tower was imported from England.
Nearby Landmarks
- Galle Fort (0.1km West)
- Dutch Reformed Church (0.3km North)
- Galle Lighthouse (0.8km Southwest)
- Japanese Peace Pagoda (1.2km Southeast)
- Maritime Archaeology Museum (0.4km North)