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Hercules Bell — Maritime Archaeology Museum

Hercules Bell

Maritime Archaeology Museum Maritime History Colonial
Period
Colonial
Materials
Bronze
Dimensions
H-24cm, D-27cm, T- 27.7cm
Site
Hercules Archaeological Site
Location
Galle > Maritime Archaeology Museum > Gallery 01 > Cabinet 04
Inventory
MAMG/2009/M/03

Full Description

This bronze bell belonged to the Dutch ship Hercules, which sank in Galle Harbor on 22nd May 1661. It was recovered from a location in the northern sector of the shore of Galle Harbor. The exterior surface of the bell bears a Latin inscription that reads: 'AMOR VINCIT OMNIA ANNO 1625' (translated as 'Love overcomes everything, the year 1625 of my Lord'.
Historical Context The Hercules, a 540‑ton VOC (Dutch East India Company) yacht, sank near Gibbet Island in Galle Harbour during a fierce storm on 21–22 May 1661 while attempting to enter the bay.

Gallery

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