4 forts that need to be on your Goa itinerary
We never tire of telling people that there is more to Goa than its clubs and beaches, and we’re here to do it again. Today on our list of the lesser known sites that Goa has to offer, are forts. Largely built by the Mughals and the Portuguese, these forts are proof that Goa has a heritage and culture that doesn’t end at fish curry rice and its beaches.
1) Fort Aguada
‘Aguada’ means water in Portuguese. Constructed in 1612, ships used to dock at the lower fort for fresh water and supplies.The main intention of building the fort was to guard Goa against the Dutch and the Marathas and as such, the fort had a heavily fortified defense system and was heavily armed during the Portuguese rule. Located about 18 km from Panjim, Fort Aguada is near the mouth of the river Mandovi. It is one of the largest in Goa.
2) Terekhol Fort
Named after the river on whose banks it is located, Terekhol fort was built by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle in the 17th century. It was captured by the Portuguese Viceroy Dom Pedro de Almeida in 1746. The surrounding waters make for a breathtakingly scenic view, which lend to the charm of this fort. Although a major part of the fort has been converted to a heritage hotel rendering the fort unavailable for sightseeing to the general public, it can be viewed from the outside and is definitely worth a visit.
3) Chapora Fort
Chapora fort lies overlooking the Vagator beach, about 10 km away from Mapusa. Adilshah of Bijapur built the original structure of the fort but the Portuguese rebuilt it in 1617. The fort offers a commanding view of the Vagator beach, Ozran Beach, Morjim Beach and the mouth of the Chapora river. It’s really no wonder that the fort is so popular with tourists and locals alike!
4) Reis Magos Fort
The Reis Magos Fort is located on the northern bank of the river Mandovi. Built by the Portuguese Viceroy Afonso de Noronha between 1551 and 1554, it was rebuilt in 1703 and served as a defense system against the 1739 attack on Goa by the Marathas. The fort is located at the mouth of the Mandovi river and was meant to prevent attacks on Panjim by sea.
Are there any more forts you know of that one must visit in Goa? Do share in the comments below.
