Galle Fort Colonial War Gallery under Star Bastion - Gun Powder Magazine No. 01
About This Museum
Would you believe this entire museum was once a gunpowder magazine, tucked right under the massive stone ramparts of the Star Bastion? Walking inside feels like stepping into a cool, shadowy vault, where history echoes off every thick wall. It's not just about old guns and swords; they have these incredibly detailed maps and officers' personal diaries that totally pull you into the colonial era. You can almost hear the whispers of Portuguese, Dutch, and British soldiers who once passed through here.
Collection Highlights
Look for the antique blunderbuss pistols with their flared muzzles and the surprisingly elegant officer's sword from the Dutch East India Company. The collection of centuries-old navigational charts showing the Indian Ocean is a real highlight.
Visitor Information
It's a small but fascinating stop right within the Galle Fort walls, perfect for a quick 30-minute visit to break up a walk along the ramparts. Just look for the low, arched entrance near the lighthouse.
Architecture & Building
A classic example of thick, bomb-proof Dutch colonial military architecture—think heavy coral and limestone blocks forming a series of interconnected barrel-vaulted chambers built right into the fort's defenses.
Contact & Location
Address: Galle, Galle District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 912 246 784
Website: Visit Website
