Fort Aguada The Timeless Allure Of An Intimidating Portuguese Stronghold

Indian west coast nestles the countrys smallest state by area

, Goa which is a popular tourist destination teeming with historical sites. Goa boasts of numerous colonial forts and renowned churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, declared as a World Heritage Site.

Goa State has two districts called North Goa and South Goa. In North Goa is a town called Candolim nestled near two popular striking beaches in Goa, known as Sinquerim Beach and Candolim Beach. Nestled between these beaches on the estuary of Mandovi River stands Fort Aguada, a 17th century Portuguese stronghold.

Aguada is a Portuguese term referring to water; veritably Fort Aguada was used to replenish water requirements for ship crews stopping by. The water was taken from a huge tank within the fort that collects water from a freshwater spring. Completed in 1612 by the Portuguese colonizers, Fort Aguada defended itself against the invading Dutch troops and Marathas, three of the great native tribes. The fort is said to be one of the largest forts in Goa and one that remained unconquered by the invaders for four and half centuries of Portuguese rule.

A stroll along Candolim Beach will take you right into the heart of Fort Aguada where its old ramparts run into the sea, embracing the rolling waves and the milky white surf. In the premises rests a four storey high lighthouse built in 1864, believed to be one of the oldest lighthouses in Asia. Today this colonial fort serves as a jail and is the biggest jail in Goa at present.

An old colonial fort by the seaside undoubtedly presents some of the best photographic captures you can imagine. You could also behold some of the splendid vistas and panoramas covering the beaches and the Candolim neighbourhood from up here.

If you are someone who prefers seclusion, then why not spend your holiday in South Goa at a cosy Goa beach hotel? The Leela Kempinski Goa, one of the best Goa resorts, offers a perfectly relaxing holiday by the sea, wrapping you with refreshing vistas of the Arabian Sea and the Sal River. Guests here could play golf to their hearts content and have a time of their life at the famous Mobor Beach nearby. At The Leela Kempinski Goa you can dine and wine in style while indulging in creature comforts offered at the top 5 star hotels in Goa.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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