Matara Star Fort: A Little Dutch Star Fort in the South
In the southern city of Matara, tucked across the river from the main rampart fort, stands the little Star Fort, a compact Dutch fortification built in the 1760s. Star-shaped and moated, it is one of the most charming small colonial forts in Sri Lanka and is easy to explore in an hour.
The Star Fort
Built by the Dutch around 1765 after an earlier fort was overrun, the Star Fort has a hexagonal star plan, a small moat and a carved gateway bearing the VOC monogram and the coat of arms. Inside are old wells, cells and a small museum.
Around Matara
The larger Matara Fort along the Nilwala river, the seaside Paravi Duwa temple on its little island, and the town’s busy markets are all within walking or a short tuk-tuk ride.
Getting there
Matara is the end of the southern railway line and expressway, about two hours from Galle, making the Star Fort an easy stop on a south-coast trip.
Been to Matara? Rate the places you visited and see what other travelers recommend.
Explore on Traveling Score