Explore
GALLE FORT
The Bartizan is the ideal getaway to explore this fascinating destination located on the Southern tip of Sri Lanka. Thanks to the recently constructed Southern Expressway, it only takes approximately 2 hours to reach The Bartizan from the international airport, a journey that used to take 4 to 5 hours.
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Galle Fort is located in a peninsula off of the town of Galle. The Fort was initially built by the Portuguese in 1588 but was later extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century. The Dutch surrounded the fort with high stonewalls protecting the town from enemies advancing from the Indian Ocean and from the town of Galle. The stonewalls have withstood the test of time, standing tall for centuries. Within the walls of the fort, exists an amazingly preserved and restored collection of Dutch-colonial buildings, The Bartizan being one of them. The architectural marvel of the fortifications and the culture of the encompassed city, has earned Galle Fort the prestigious distinction as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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The Bartizan is located on the corner of Pedlar Street and Rampart Street, allowing you to explore this magnificent city, bursting with colonial architecture and culture in a dramatic tropical setting. From the hotel, you can find yourself wandering down the cobblestone streets filled with boutique shops and cafes. After a 15 minute walk down Pedlar Street, you will reach the Old Dutch Hospital, which has been renovated to be the site of many popular restaurants and galleries.
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From the Old Dutch Hospital, you can walk the perimeter of the wall, enjoying the scents of spices and salty winds. Along the way, the Maritime Museum, Galle Fort Lighthouse and iconic clock tower are must-see sites. As you stroll atop the wall, you will circle back towards The Bartizan, where you can enjoy a view of the hotel from the wall. At this point, if you wish to take a dip in the ocean, you can take the stairs leading down to an intimate beach, or you can cross the street and retreat back to the hotel to enjoy the setting sun over the Indian Ocean from The Bartizan’s outdoor rooftop paito or from the privacy of your own balcony.