‘Black Fort’ Full of Black Smoke – Why?

When you visit the iconic city of Galle, a ‘must see’ is the historic Black Fort or the ‘Kalu Kotuwa’ as known by locals.

The Zwart Bastion was built by the Portuguese, who ruled a certain segment of Sri Lanka, especially along the coastline.

In the 16th century, when the Portuguese gained control of some parts of the country, they realized the value of the Galle Harbor.

Trading activities were an important part of this Southern Port, especially the cinnamon trade.

Hence, in the 1580s to 1590s, the Portuguese built fortifications here to defend the port.

, The Black Fort was built to defend the harbor from the enemy.

When the Dutch East India Company (VOC), captured Galle in 1640, they expanded and reinforced the Black Fort using coral and granite.

Transformed the area into a much larger defensive network.

Tunnels, vaulted chambers, watch posts, and artillery positions were added, all oriented toward the harbor entrance.

There is debate over the name ‘Black Fort.’

Some link “Zwart Bastion” to darkened stone or smoke from workshops.

While others believe it reflects its use for storage or holding captives during Dutch times.

“The place was so named as it was covered in smoke most of the time with the firing of guns and cannons,’ a comment on TripAdvisor said.

This is known as the oldest bastion built by the Portuguese, known as Zwart Bastion.

There is talk that it has a secret exit from Galle Fort.

The tunnel under the bastion has not been entirely excavated.

Now the Black Fort built by the Portugals has become a tourist attraction and a part of the wider Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.