Keeping a watchful eye throughout time

The Kalpitiya Dutch Fort, a formidable symbol of the Dutch era, is to be preserved under a project implemented by the Archaeology Department.

The project was inaugurated under the supervision of Asst Director - Archaeology, North Western Province, N M Gunatilleka.

Mr Gunatilleka said the conservation project would be implemented in stages, and it was intended to be completed in two years. He stated that officials have been instructed to carry out the relevant reconstruction work preserving the Fort's historical significance.

Kalpitiya gained much fame as a lucrative tourist destination, but the Fort has seen a lack of maintenance over the years. This is the first time it is to be renovated.

It is stated that the Portuguese built the Fort with ramparts facing the sea, believing that the enemy would arrive by sea and not by land.

It currently serves as the Vijaya Naval Base, but after renovations are completed the Fort will be brought under the purview of the Department of Archaeology.

Mr Gunatilleka added: "However, the Navy will provide protection. The access road to the Fort through the Naval Base would be changed and the tourists will have to use another entrance."