Jaffna Dutch Fort

What is this site?

Vast pentagonal coastal fortification constructed from marine coral limestone and granite, complete with outer moats, glacis, bastions, and VOC administrative ruins.

Why it matters

The largest and most strategically engineered Dutch colonial fortification in the northern region.

Description

Built by the Portuguese in 1618 and completely rebuilt into a pentagonal star fort by the Dutch in 1680; surrendered to the British in 1795. Associated patrons (as supplied): Portuguese Empire, Dutch East India Company. Key features to look for: Coral-stone ramparts and angled bastions overlooking the lagoon; Main gateway displaying the Dutch VOC emblem dated 1680; Restored Dutch church (Groote Kerk) foundation perimeter; Underground ammunition storehouses and tunnels.

Photos

Historical and scholarly sources

1. Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Gazetted National Monument Reserve

Visiting responsibly

Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes and hats where requested, never climb on monuments or pose with your back to Buddha images, and follow guidance from custodians and the Department of Archaeology.

Suggest a correction