National Maritime Archaeology Museum: A Deep Dive into Sri Lanka’s Maritime Heritage

The National Maritime Archaeology Museum in Galle is one of Sri Lanka’s key institutions preserving the country’s rich maritime history.

Located in the historic Galle Fort, the museum occupies a 1671 Dutch warehouse above the Old Gate of the fort. It first opened to the public on 9 May 1992 and underwent significant restoration following the devastation caused by the 2004 tsunami.

History of the Museum
The building that houses the museum was originally constructed as part of the Dutch fortifications in Galle. This two-story warehouse was an important part of the fort, especially during the Dutch period, and its VOC insignia (referring to the Dutch East India Company) is still visible at the entrance. The British Coat of Arms was later added above the Old Gate, signifying the transition to British rule in the 19th century.

Before becoming a museum, the warehouse served various functions, including as an administrative office complex. The museum initially specialized in the fauna and flora of the sea and featured exhibits related to seafaring, fishing, and marine life. Notable exhibits included life-size dioramas of traditional fishing methods and displays on sea pollution and coastal erosion.

The 2004 tsunami and restoration
On 26 December 2004, the Asian tsunami caused extensive damage to the museum. Much of the collection—originally consisting of 3,600 objects—was lost, and the UNESCO Maritime Archaeology Unit was completely destroyed. Only about 20% of the maritime archaeological artifacts were salvaged.

Thanks to funding from the Royal Government of the Netherlands, the museum was reconstructed and reopened on 4 March 2010 as Sri Lanka’s first National Maritime Archaeology Museum. The renovation restored the 40,000-square-foot Dutch warehouse and reconnected the building with both pedestrian and vehicular traffic through dual-level access points.

Exhibits and collections
Today, the museum features a wide variety of marine artifacts retrieved from shipwrecks off the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Key items include:

• Maps, naval craft, and ropes.
• Earthenware, beer mugs, and smoking pipes.
• Artillery guns, barrels, and sailor shoes.

Many of these artifacts were recovered from shipwrecks that are up to 800 years old, offering insight into Sri Lanka’s maritime connections and trade routes. The museum serves as a testament to the island’s seafaring history, highlighting both its local fishing traditions and its role in global maritime trade.

The National Maritime Archaeology Museum in Galle is not only a reminder of Sri Lanka’s rich maritime heritage but also a symbol of resilience, having survived the challenges posed by natural disasters. It continues to play a vital role in preserving and showcasing the country’s underwater archaeological treasures.

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📸 credit to photographers