The Zwart Bastion (Black Fort)

The Fortification built by the Portuguese centred round the Black Fort. It is believed that it was so named because this area was constantly covered by the dark smoke emanating from the fire of canons and guns and smithies.

After Galle Fort was conquered by the Dutch on 13 th March 1640, it was named the Zwart Fort (Black Fort). It is believed that there was a secret exit from Galle Fort called Water-Pas in this bastion. It is said to have been built during the period 1725 – 1735. It is not identifiable now.

There is a tunnel underneath this bastion. But it has not been fully excavated yet.