Dutch Reformed Church

🌟 The Groote Kerk, also known as the Dutch Reformed Church, stands within the historic Galle Fort in Sri Lanka. Let me share some fascinating details about this remarkable church:

• Location: The Groote Kerk is situated near the entrance to the fort, on Church Street within the Galle fort. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 6.02806°N, 80.21694°E.
• History: This church has a rich history. It was built by the Dutch in 1755 and remains one of the oldest Protestant churches still in use in the country. The present church is believed to be the third building serving the Dutch Reformed Church in the fort. The first was located near the Galle Clock Tower, and the second, a more elaborate structure, stood opposite the present church (only the belfry of the second building remains today). Interestingly, the current church is said to have been constructed on the site of a Portuguese Capuchin Convent.
• Architectural Style: The Groote Kerk was constructed in the Doric style of the period, similar to the Wolvendaal Church in Colombo. It takes the form of a cruciform, with shorter transepts. Notably, the church lacks a central tower inside to bear the weight of the roof. To compensate, it features two large Dutch gables—one to the north and one to the south. These gables are adorned with an unusual double scroll moulding, unique to this church. Additionally, the masonry gables are finished with three flame-like finials.
• Belfry: The church’s detached belfry, erected in 1701, stands over the road from the church, at the corner of Queen’s Street. The bell, cast in 1709, was rung on Sundays to announce services at the church.
• Interior and Additions: During the British Period, the church underwent various changes. A stained glass window was added to the west façade around 1830, and a communion rail was built in the south wing. At the beginning of the 20th century, a small organ found its place in the south wing. Around 1890, a canopy was constructed above the stained glass window to protect it from leaks.
• Highest Point in Galle Fort: The Groote Kerk was strategically built on the highest point within the Galle fort, standing more than 12 meters (39 feet) above sea level. Its foundations were initially laid in 1682, but further work stalled for several decades. In 1755, the Commandeur of Galle, Casparus de Jong, and his wife, Geertruyda Adriana Le Grand, donated the funds for the church’s construction as a thanksgiving for the birth of their long-awaited daughter. The child was not baptized until the church was completed, with the baptismal date recorded as August 24, 1755.
• Colonial Monument: Today, the Groote Kerk remains an active place of worship and stands as a Colonial Monument within the historic Galle Fort.