Making a great leap forward, the ‘Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct’, the new commercial paradise situated in the historic fortress of the renowned world heritage city of Galle was declared opened for public on Saturday.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa graced the opening ceremony as the Chief Guest. Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, the driving force behind urban development was also present at the event.

Chief Guest, President Rajapaksa unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion amidst the distinguished guests at the entrance and also visited the shops during the session.

Certificates of appreciation were also presented to the officials and other personnel who contributed their valuable services towards the successful completion of the project by the President. Musical and dance performances mixed with cultural features enthralled the invitees in the intervening time.

Located in the renowned Galle Fort, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dutch Hospital is an iconic structure that was originally built by the Portuguese and later developed by the Dutch. Today, the Galle Dutch Hospital has been transformed in to an attractive shopping mall just similar to the one in Colombo Fort.

In accordance with the heritage buildings development project, steps were taken to renovate the historical buildings in the Galle Fort under the directions of the Defence Secretary. Thereupon, plans were drawn to give this exclusive fortress a facelift while entrusting 10th Engineering Service Regiment of Sri Lanka Army with the construction duties. Combining the expertise of the Urban Development Authority (UDA) and the Army, internal ambiance blends with modern facilities has been developed while retaining its original architectural designs.

The astonishing shopping complex has eight shops on the ground and 10 on the first floor. Comprised with gems and jewellery shops, tea and spice shops, antiques collectibles shops and classy food and beverage serving restaurants, it would definitely entice a large number of tourists to the venue. It is also an ideal setting to spend leisure time and buy souvenirs while enjoying the real Sri Lankan spirit.

The Southern Expressway, Sri Lanka’s first highway linking the Colombo with the historic city of Galle has currently reduced the time spent to travel to an hour.

Ministers, Galle Chief Minister, Parliamentarians, Galle Governor and the Mayor, the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Commanders, Provincial Councillors, UDA Chairperson and the Director General, Project Architect, Senior State Officials and a large gathering were also present at the event.