Martello Tower

A Rare Monument of Strategic Importance

The Martello Tower of Hambantota is one of the rarest monuments in the world, as it remains to be the smallest and only type of fortification that was built by colonials. Set on top of the ruins of a Dutch fortress, the British constructed this particular type of fortress to protect the seaport town from attacks, especially after the Kandyan forces’ rebellion. The tower was completed in 1803 and was believed to have housed a garrison of 15-25 men along with an officer, and several artillery weapons to repel any sort of future attack.

A Treasure Trove of History

The Martello Tower stands at a height of 25ft, which allows for a 360-degree clear line of sight if any invader were to attack the area. Ever since the country gained its independence in 1948, the tower was rendered obsolete. However, it has been restored recently and now is an archaeological site which also houses a fisheries museum. Exploring this particular monument will allow you to understand the colonial heritage that exists in the island, along with the ancient heritage of the area, as the museum showcases just how the society in Hambantota was formed and how it is still seen in certain areas.