Jaffna Fort: A Great Dutch Star Fort by the Lagoon
Jaffna Fort spreads along the edge of the lagoon on the northern peninsula, a huge star-shaped fortress first built by the Portuguese and greatly expanded by the Dutch. Damaged during the civil war and now partly restored, its ramparts are a peaceful place to walk and take in the wide northern light.
On the ramparts
The thick coral-and-limestone walls, moat and bastions are among the finest Dutch military works in Asia. From the ramparts you look out over the lagoon and back across the low, palmyra-dotted town.
Sunset and around
Locals gather here at sunset. Nearby are the old Dutch churches, the bustling market and the great Nallur Kandaswamy temple, so the fort fits easily into a day in Jaffna.
Getting there
Jaffna is reached by the northern railway or road; the fort is central in town, an easy walk or tuk-tuk ride.
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