Tsunami of 2004 had a devastating effect on Galle Fort. Most of the buildings were either completely destroyed or were damaged to a large extent. Those that were completely destroyed were rebuilt afresh and those which were damaged were renovated. These efforts were done under the supervision of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs so that the new buildings and the renovations retain the old appearance which was there prior to Tsunami. Walking around the city, you can still see remnants of this natural disaster.


Activities inside the Dutch Fort are along five streets - Church Street, Rampart Street, Pedler Street, Hospital Street and Leyn Baan Street. Some 30 jewellery shops line these streets, each with their stones on display. The Gem industry in Sri Lanka has been in existence for over 2500 years. Some of the rarest of gem stones of exquisite beauty have taken pride of place, in the Crown jewels of Kings and Queens from time of Great Roamn Emperors. The most famous Sri Lankan stone is blue Sapphire.