Galle was a popular port of call and a safe harbor for navigators of the middle ages who were engaged in trading and exploration.

According to legend, the history of Galle dates back to the period ofRama and Ravana.

The Portuguese and other Europeans who visited Sri Lanka later have used various different names such asPoint de Galle, Puncto de Galle, Pinto GaleandPontogal.

The Portuguese word for cock is"Galo"derived from the Latin"Gallus".One belief is that because the first thing they heard as their ship entered the Galle harbor was the crowing of a cock, the Portuguese named this cityGalle.