The Dutch Reformed Church in Galle Sri Lanka, also known locally as the Groote Kerk, is one of the oldest Protestant churches in the country and a key highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort. Built in 1755 by the Dutch, this colonial landmark features distinctive Baroque architecture, a hexagonal design, and beautifully carved wooden pulpit and pews. The church is renowned for its historical gravestones, memorial plaques, and serene atmosphere that reflects centuries of maritime and colonial history. Located near the fort’s main gate, it remains a popular stop for travelers exploring Galle Fort attractions and those interested in Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage.
Standing gracefully on Church Street inside the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, the Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk) is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest Protestant places of worship. Consecrated in 1755, this coral-stone sanctuary has witnessed centuries of colonial rule, maritime trade, and spiritual devotion. Its gravestone-paved floors, historic organ loft, and serene interiors make it a living monument of Dutch heritage in the tropics.
The Dutch Reformed Church on Church Street, a colonial-era treasure in Galle Fort.
Location: Church Street, Galle Fort
Built/Consecrated: 1755
Architectural Style: Dutch Colonial with Doric influences
Unique Feature: Floors paved with gravestones from Dutch cemeteries
The Dutch Reformed Church is the third Protestant church built within Galle Fort. Earlier versions stood near the Clock Tower and opposite the current site, with only the old belfry surviving. The present church was consecrated in 1755 and became the spiritual heart of the Dutch community. Over the centuries, it has continued to serve worshippers, making it one of the longest-standing active churches in Sri Lanka.
Its gravestone-paved floors tell stories of Dutch settlers, administrators, and soldiers, offering a poignant reminder of the fort’s colonial past.
The church’s architecture blends European design with tropical adaptations:
The church is located in the heart of Galle Fort, surrounded by other colonial landmarks:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily, except during services) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Best Time | Morning for quiet exploration; late afternoon for combined fort walks |
| Dress Code | Modest attire recommended |
| Accessibility | Easily reached from the fort’s main gate |
Discover centuries of history and devotion at the Dutch Reformed Church in Galle Fort.
