Fort Aguada History
Aguada Fort is the best-preserved Portuguese fort in India. Its construction was started in the year 1609 and was completed in 1612 under Ruy Tavara, the then Viceroy. Located in the south of Candolim town, at the shore of Mandovi River, the fort was built to defend Portuguese against the Dutch and the Marathas. It was also a reference point for the vessels coming from Europe. Earlier, it was tasked with the defence of shipping and the Bardez sub-district in the vicinity. Fort Aguada gets its name after a freshwater spring that provided potable water to the ships that used to stop by. 'Agua' is a Portuguese word for 'Water'. Crews of passing ships used to stop by to replenish their fresh water stores.
Divided into two parts, the lower part of the fort served as a safe berth for Portuguese ships. The upper part has a stunning four-storey Portuguese lighthouse. Built in 1612, it has the capacity of holding 2,376,000 gallons of water, one of the biggest freshwater reservoirs of Asia. Initially, the lighthouse emitted light once in every 7 minutes. Besides the lighthouse, it also has a moat, gunpowder room and a secret escape passage in case of war and emergency.
Architecture of Fort Aguada
It is a fine example of Portuguese Architecture. Made up of laterite stone, which is widely available in Goa, Aguada Fort stood the ravages of time. Splashed against waters and strong winds, it stands strong even after 400 years. The magnificent fort has been built on Bardez peninsula and it covers the entire peninsula. It has an enormous cistern in which over 2,000,000 gallons of water could be stored. The walls built are 5 ft. high and 1.3 m. thick, conform to the natural terrain. The square-shaped fort is surrounded by bastions on three sides. The fourth side has a gate facing the river.
Aguada Fort is divided into two segments where the upper part acts as a fort and watering station, while the lower part serves as a safe berth for Portuguese ships. The upper part also has a wide water-filled ditch, underground water reservoir, gunpowder room, light house and bastions and a secret escape at the time of war and emergency.
Aguada Jail and Lighthouse
A part of the Fort Aguada has been converted into a jail during Salazar administration. This largest jail of Goa is closed for public gaze and has a statue which depicts Goa's fight for freedom. The accused were taken to the jail for crimes such as narcotics abuse, drugs sale and trafficking. On every 18th June, a ceremony is held here to salute the freedom fighters of Goa.
The Aguada Fort has a splendid four-storeyed light house. Built in 1864 it is the oldest Lighthouse of Asia. There was a time when oil lamps were used to emit light after every 7 minutes which was later changed to 30 seconds. The Lighthouse dominates the landscape of the Fort. It was closed to public gaze some years ago and was abandoned in 1976. So, a new lighthouse was built and was named as Aguada Lighthouse. A bell was also there inside the lighthouse which later became a part of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church in Panaji. For a small fee, a sinuous staircase will lead you to the top from where you can have a beautiful view of the sunset.
Best time to visit Fort Aguada
Winters are comparatively the best time to visit Goa. The weather remains balmy and soothing. You should consider visiting Aguada Fort in the evening to avoid the scorching sun and to get the breathtaking view of the sunset.
How to Reach Fort Aguada
It is located on the Aguada-Siolim Road in Sinquerim, Candolim. There is a difference of 4 km between the beach and the hilltop which can be covered by hiring motorbikes or taxis. Another 2 km footpath is also located but it offers a steep climb.
Top Tourist Places in Goa
Baga Beach
Water Sports in Goa
Cruise
Anjuna Beach
Casino
Basilica of Bom Jesus
All Tourist Places in Goa
Goa Packages
Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free
Colourful Goa | 4 Days 3 Nights
? 12,000
onwards
CUSTOMIZE & GET QUOTES
Mesmerizing Goa | 6 Days 5 Nights
? 15,000
onwards
CUSTOMIZE & GET QUOTES
Alluring Goa | 4 Days 3 Nights
? 9,999
onwards
CUSTOMIZE & GET QUOTES
View All Packages for Goa
Photos of Fort Aguada
Comments on Fort Aguada
Post Your Comment
