Dutch Reformed Church

Built in 1755, this active Protestant church showcases Dutch colonial architecture with its distinctive floor of gravestones from Dutch and British colonials. The church still holds services and contains historical artifacts including communion silver from 1759. Intricate wooden pews and pulpit demonstrate period craftsmanship. It is at Galle Fort, close to the other main sights. At 30-45 minutes, it works well slotted between larger visits rather than as a standalone destination.

You'll walk across a floor made entirely of colonial-era gravestones while examining Dutch furniture and communion pieces. The high wooden ceiling and whitewashed walls create a cool, peaceful interior contrasting with the tropical heat outside.

Step inside Sri Lanka's oldest Protestant church where Dutch colonial history lives through original gravestones and period furnishings. It is not the first thing you should see in Galle, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with National Maritime Museum and Galle Fort and Ramparts - add it before or after without rearranging your day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.

You will find it in Galle Fort. It is one entry in our list of things to do in Galle. The Galle guide covers transport, costs and when to go.

We plan trips to Galle and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.