Question 1

What is the Moon Bastion in Galle Fort?

Accepted Answer

The Moon Bastion (Dutch: Middelpunt) is one of three sea-facing bastions built by the Dutch in 1667 as part of their fortification of Galle Fort. It occupies a central position on the northern rampart, flanked by the Sun Bastion and the Star Bastion, and sits adjacent to the New Gate — the main entrance into the fort.

Question 2

Who built the Moon Bastion and when?

Accepted Answer

The Moon Bastion was built by the Dutch in 1667, after they captured and demolished the earlier Portuguese wooden palisade fortification known as Fort Santa Cruz. The Dutch rebuilt the defences in durable coral stone and granite, creating a system of bastions that still stands today.

Question 3

Is there an entry fee to visit the Moon Bastion at Galle Fort?

Accepted Answer

No. The rampart walls of Galle Fort, including the Moon Bastion, are freely accessible to all visitors. You can walk the full perimeter of the fort walls at no charge. Certain attractions inside the fort, such as the National Museum, have separate entry fees.

Question 4

What is the New Gate next to the Moon Bastion?

Accepted Answer

The New Gate is a Dutch-era archway set into the rampart wall directly beside the Moon Bastion. It serves as the main vehicular and pedestrian entrance between the modern city of Galle and the historic town inside the fort. Despite its name, it dates to the Dutch period and has been in continuous use ever since.

Question 5

How do I get to Galle Fort from Colombo?

Accepted Answer

Galle is approximately 120 km south of Colombo via the Southern Expressway, with a driving time of around 90 minutes to two hours. The Coastal Railway from Colombo Fort station also serves Galle, with the journey taking roughly two to two-and-a-half hours through scenic coastal landscape. From Galle station, the fort is a short three-wheel ride or a 10-minute walk.

Question 6

Did the British use the Moon Bastion after taking over from the Dutch?

Accepted Answer

No. When the British took control of Galle in 1796, they did not commission the Moon Bastion for military use. It was effectively left dormant, which inadvertently helped preserve its Dutch-period stonework in relatively original condition.

Question 7

What is the best time of day to walk the Galle Fort ramparts?

Accepted Answer

Early morning is generally the most comfortable time, when temperatures are lower and the fort's streets are quiet. Late afternoon is also popular for photography, as the westward-facing bastions catch warm directional light. Midday in the south-coast summer can be very hot on the exposed ramparts, so plan accordingly.

Question 8

Is Galle Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Galle Fort was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, recognised for its outstanding example of a European-built fortified trading port showing the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions. The Moon Bastion is an integral part of the fortification system covered by this designation.

Moon Bastion

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The Hour When the Moon Weeps