Sandy Beaches, Image Credit: One Galle Face
The city of Colombo, the largest metropolitan landscape on the entire island of Sri Lanka is a mesmerising locale where modern constructions lie interspersed with historical works of architecture from the country’s colonial times. One of the most striking places the city has to offer is Galle Face Green which is an urban park that is situated right next to the sea and contains a variety of experiences. Around this renowned attraction you find many striking establishments ranging from luxury hotels to an upcoming mixed use development by the name of One Galle Face.
Galle Face Green was built sometime in the 1800s and initially occupied a much larger area than it does today. The purpose of it was to enable Dutch canons to be strategically placed in order to gain a tactful line-of-fire against Portuguese vessels. In 1856, once it was no longer required as a strategic military location, the governor of that time ordered the construction of a mile-long promenade.
Initially, this sprawling urban park contained the Colpetty Race Course which held horse-races until 1893 during which the newer Colombo Race Course became the primary destination. Galle Face Green was where Golf was introduced to Sri Lanka in 1879 and eventually became a popular platform for the game. Sri Lanka’s first Rugby match also took place at this historic ground.
Currently Galle Face Green operates as the largest open space in Colombo and attracts all kinds of people ranging from children to couples. There’s a large selection of stalls selling all kinds of products ranging from street-food to children’s toys. There’s even a popular restaurant, Nana’s, situated here if you’d like to try some local cuisine such as kotthu roti. During certain many notable activities take place within the area, such as the construction of Sri Lanka’s attempt at building the world’s tallest Christmas tree.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.
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