The most beautiful churches cathedrals basilicas and chapels Sri Lanka

The Dutch reformed church Galle or Groote Kerk) is the oldest Protestant church in the country. Built in 1755 by a Dutch governor, it stands on the site of what was, before 1640 and the capture of Galle, a convent of Portuguese capucins. It seems that it is the third reformed church built by the Dutch in Galle. The first was next to the clock tower, the second opposite the current church. The church was built on the highest point of the fort, at an altitude of 12 metres, in a doric style. It respects a cruciform plan, despite shortened transepts. They are separated from the nave by a double arch. The absence of a central pillar to support the weight of the roof is compensated by the two gables north and south, typical of the Dutch style. Pine nuts are topped by three flames and are decorated with round, unique stucco in Sri Lanka. Raised benches were placed along the walls and were reserved for the Commander of the fort, the deacons and for official of the Dutch Company Oriental Indies (VOC). The benches placed in the south of the church were dismantled to place the altar of the Anglican community when it invested building in 1867. The belfry on the other side of the street is former to the church. The bell was cast in 1709 and was used to gather the faithful for the service. The reformed church was renovated in 2004 with the help of the Netherlands.