Kalpitiya Dutch Fort & St. Anne’s Historical Complex

What is this site?

Yellow-brick and coral-stone coastal fortress situated at the entrance to Puttalam Lagoon, featuring a carved stone church entrance and defensive bastions.

Why it matters

Constructed by the Dutch to control trade in areca nuts, pearls, and salt, and to isolate the Kingdom of Kandy from foreign assistance.

Description

Built between 1667 and 1676; preserves high rampart walls, arched barracks, and an ornate main gate bearing the VOC insignia. Associated patrons (as supplied): Dutch East India Company (VOC). Key features to look for: Coral and limestone entrance gateway bearing the VOC insignia; Rampart walls overlooking the waters of the Puttalam Lagoon; Remnants of the Dutch garrison church and officers' quarters; Surrounding coastal palm landscapes and saline lagoon channels.

Photos

Historical and scholarly sources

1. Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Protected Coastal Heritage Schedule

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.

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