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We all recognize Goa through its pristine beaches, gushing waterfalls, emerald green fields and lush green vegetations. However, we forget that the magnificent forts in Goa add to the charming landscape of the beautiful town. Mostly built by the Portuguese, the majestic forts are a wonderful asset to the heritage of the city. With sturdy fortifications and tall towers, these fortresses stand out high around the coastline. Although comparatively smaller in size than the forts in other parts of the country, these splendid forts boast of exceptional architecture; and hold immense military and political importance. Some of these were also built by the Mughals and some by the Marathas. They stand tall as significant strategic or vantage points to protect the city. Most of these forts are currently in ruins, but they are a testimony to the bygone era and are still so beautiful that hundreds of tourists flock the premises on an everyday basis. Besides, these grand forts provide a spectacular view of the city below. You can climb on one of the hefty walls overlooking the sea and witness surreal view of the minuscule beaches, tiny houses, toy size churches and narrow alleys. You can not help but just marvel at the effort and expertise involved to come up with such majestic piece of art. So when in the city, do not forget to pay a visit to these amazing, out of the world, magnificent forts in Goa to make your trip even more memorable.
Here is the list of 11 Magnificent Forts in Goa for Every Traveller's Delight
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The perfect epitome of Portuguese architecture, the remarkable Fort Aguada and its Lighthouse, which braved the ravages of time, is a 17th century Portuguese Fort standing till date on Sinquerim Beach, Goa. Built in 1612 as a protection from Dutch and Marathas, it is the most priced and crucial fort for Portuguese and covers the entire peninsula at the southwestern tip of Bardez.
Chapora Fort near Vagator beach is famous for its ruins and the success of Hindi movie 'Dil Chahta Hai' which made this place all the more famous. With its Portuguese architecture, this fort is strong reminder of Goa's Portuguese past.
Built in 1705 by the Portuguese, Corjuem Fort is located in Aldona village near River Mapusa. Also known as Khojuem Fort, it is one of the smaller forts of Goa. Besides providing a surreal view of the adjacent surroundings, the fort also boasts of being one of the only two inland forts that continue to survive till today.
Across the Terekhol river from the Querim beach in North Goa lies the majestic Tiracol Fort. Also known as the Terekhol Fort, this magnificent structure was once a crucial part of the maritime defence of the Portuguese colonists. Today, it serves as the marvellous Fort Tiracol heritage hotel, offering a rare vacation experience different from the cliched agenda of tourists in Goa.
Located on the banks of the mesmerizing River Mandovi, Reis Magos Fort served as a turret to guard the mouth of the estuary and as accommodation for the Portuguese officials since 1551. The historic structure proved helpful during their war against the Marathas but it was captured by the British around 1800. The fort then served as a prison and since 2012 it has been a monument of national and historic heritage.
Mormugao Fort was built in the early 17th century by the Portuguese to protect the Margoa Port. The structure expands into the sea and allowed them to keep a better watch on the waterways to protect the port from attacks and invasions. The fort is now one of the best attractions to get a fabulous view of the scenic landscape and the beautiful Arabian Sea.
Located on the beautiful coastline of Goa overlooking the gorgeous Arabian Sea, Cabo De Rama Fort is frequently associated with the legend of Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshmana lived in the fort during their 14 year exile. It was built by the Hindu Rulers, however, in the 1760s; it was captured by the Portuguese and used as a military base and later as a prison. It, therefore, is also a historically significant monument in the country.
Situated northeast to Margao in Salcette, South Goa, Rachol Fort is famous for the battles fought between Vijayanagar and Bijapur empires. Built complete out of laterite stones, the majestic fort has become a major tourist attraction of the city.
Located on the border of Goa and Karnataka, Anjdiv Fort is yet another masterpiece of Goa. Built in 1505 AD by the Portuguese, the fort is also known as Anjediva and Anjadiva. Sprawling over an area of 1.5 sq km, the fort is synonymous with grandeur and magnificence.
Located at a distance of 18 kms from Panaji, Sinquerim Fort was constructed in 1612 and overlooks the beautiful Sinquerim Beach. The magnificent fort was used as the reference point for goods arriving from Europe. Also, it was used to guard the territory from the Dutch and Marathas.
Located in the Sattari district of North Goa, Nanuz Fort was built by the legendary ruler Shivaji and was later taken over by the Portuguese. Although comparatively smaller in size and currently in ruins, the fort is still flocked by many tourists to experience its magnificence and the olden times architecture.
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Which of these forts in Goa have you visited? Let us know in the comments below!
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