Meeran Mosque

Galle


Facing the lighthouse, this beautifully maintained whitewashed building is a highly unusual construction combining eclectic architectural features that include a dash of baroque, British Victorian and Islamic detailing. Its facade is more reminiscent of a Portuguese cathedral than a mosque. There's no general admission, but non-Muslims may be invited to enter if dressed appropriately. Inside there's a wonderful little mihrab, complete with small decorative domes, and some attractive floor tiling.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Galle attractions

1. Point Utrecht Bastion

0.04 MILES

The eastern section of Galle's wall ends at the Point Utrecht Bastion, close to the powder magazine, which bears a Dutch inscription from 1782. Today this…

2. Lighthouse

0.05 MILES

Guarding against the rocks at the southern end of the Galle promontory, this elegant 27m working lighthouse dates from 1939, though there's been a…

3. Lighthouse Beach

0.07 MILES

A slim swathe of sand right on the east side of the Fort. However it's not that great for a dip as there are rocks offshore and the beach is often…

4. Flag Rock

0.11 MILES

Flag Rock, at the southernmost end of the Fort, was once a Portuguese bastion. Today it is easily the most popular place to catch a sunset. During…

5. Aurora Bastion

0.14 MILES

East-facing bastion, with fine views of Galle harbour. Look out for blocks of coral in its walls.

6. Historical Mansion

0.14 MILES

More of an antique store than a museum, this Fort townhouse (which dates back to the Dutch days) contains the private collection of a long-time local…

7. Dutch Hospital

0.15 MILES

Now fully restored and home to myriad upmarket boutiques and restaurants, this vast, colonnaded colonial landmark dates from the 18th century. Its size…

8. Triton Bastion

0.19 MILES

Small southwestern bastion, which was once topped with a windmill (used to draw water to clean Galle's streets).