In 1640 the Dutch completed the main fort at Matara but found it to be vulnerable from attacks coming from land.

[1] The drainage system was internal and disposed of the water collected from the monsoon rains to the moat.

The date of construction (1765) is embossed over the main gate with the Dutch East India Company insignia and the coat of arms of the governor flanked by two rampart lions.

The British used it as an administrative office and quarters by the District Engineer of the Public Works Department.

In 1941, there was an attempt by the State Council of Ceylon to hand over the fort to the Department of Archaeology, which did not take place.