DUTCH FORT

This old Dutch fort was in fact built by the Portuguese between 1667 and 1676. It was intended to protect the entrance to the lagoon and the coastal trade of the region, namely that of salt and cinnamon. The cinnamon trade was particularly profitable in the area, so much so that the Dutch built a canal from Puttalam to Colombo for its transportation. The fort is currently occupied by the Sri Lankan Navy and cannot be visited. It is hardly visible from the city, despite the ramparts being in very good condition.