Goa, the land of splendid beaches, vibrant nightlife and rich history and culture, is one of India’s most famous tourist destinations. Every year through the months of October to March, the state sees a large influx of travellers from all over the world as the weather is extremely pleasant and the party atmosphere here is at an all-time high.
While people tend to associate Goa with partying and relaxing, however, the state is also abundant with nature, including beaches, rivers and jungles and iconic landmarks which are etched in history.
Aguada Fort is one of the most famous monuments in Goa. Overlooking the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, Aguada Fort Goa is an exemplary reflection of the Portuguese influence in the state. The fort was built in the 17th century and has been a part of the state’s rich cultural heritage for almost 400 years now.
Not only its mesmerising architecture, but Aguada Fort is also renowned due to its location next to the bustling Candolim Beach. Rich in history, location, and splendid sea views, a trip to Aguada Fort should be at the top of your travel plans as you visit Goa.
- Aguada Fort Location: Candolim, North Goa
- Aguada Fort Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Everyday)
- Aguada Fort Entry Fee: Free
Aguada Fort: History
Aguada Fort has a rich history which dates back to the year 1609. Since it is located on the confluence of the Mandovi River and the sea, the fort was crucial to the Portuguese, who had built it to maintain their ruling position in Goa and defend themselves against the Dutch and Maratha invaders.
The Portuguese started building the fort under the supervision of Vicerory Ruy Tavara, and the construction was completed three years later in 1612. The fort’s name was kept after the freshwater spring that was present here, and the term Aguada means freshwater in Portuguese. Crews of sailing ships replenished their water from the spring that was located inside the fort.
In 1864, a lighthouse was added to the fort, and for a long time, it was used as a reference point for the ships which sailed to India from Europe. This lighthouse was abandoned in 1967 and is closed for the general public. However, in its place, a new lighthouse called the Aguada Lighthouse was built, and it is now one of the best attractions within the fort.
The fort premises also houses a jail that was utilised during the administration of Salazar, the 100th prime minister of Portugal. Interestingly, Fort Aguada is one of the few forts in India that an enemy has never conquered.
Also Read: Forts Around Udaipur You Just Can’t Miss
Aguada Fort: Architecture
Aguada Fort’s architecture is a fine example of the military engineering skills of the Portuguese at that time. The fort is built from laterite rock and is stationed on a rocky promontory overlooking the Arabian Sea. Divided into two parts, the upper section of the Aguada Fort served as a fortress and a watering station, while the lower part served as a safe area for Portuguese ships.
The fort is surrounded by a moat, which used to be filled with water from the nearby Aguada Spring. The fort has a lighthouse constructed in the 19th century to guide ships entering the port of Goa. It also houses several bastions, barracks, and gunpowder rooms, which are now converted into museums.
The fort also has a large underground water storage tank, which could hold around 10 million litres of water. The architecture of the Aguada Fort is a testament to the Portuguese colonial legacy in India.
Attractions and Other Details
- Aguada Fort Prison Cells
- Lighthouse – the oldest of its kind in all of Asia.
- The huge water reservoir and ammunition room.
- 79 cannons were present on the fort.
- Church of St. Lawrence, located just 1km away from the fort, was built to prevent enemies from attacking the fort closely.
- Aguada Fort ticket price is free for all.
- Aguada Fort to Baga Beach distance is approximately 10km.
- The fort has appeared in several Bollywood movies, including Singham, Golmaal and Kabhi Haa Kabhi Naa.
Revel in the greatness of Aguada Fort as you plan a fun-filled vacation to Goa!
