History
Fort Aguada is a well-preserved seventeenth-century Portuguese fort, along with a lighthouse, standing in Goa, India, on Sinquerim Beach, overlooking the Arabian Sea. It is an ASI protected Monument of National Importance in Goa.
Origins and history
The fort was originally constructed in 1612 to guard against the Dutch. It was a reference point for the vessels coming from Europe at that time. This old Portuguese fort stands on the beach south of Candolim, at the shore of the Mandovi River. It was initially tasked with defense of shipping and the nearby Bardez sub-district.
A freshwater spring within the fort provided water supply to the ships that used to stop by. This is how the fort got its name: Aguada, meaning watery in the Portuguese language. Crews of passing ships would often visit to replenish their freshwater stores. The Aguada Fort Lighthouse erected in 1864 is the oldest of its kind in Asia. Built in 1612, it was once the grandstand of 79 cannons. It has the capacity of storing 2,376,000 gallons of water, one of the biggest freshwater storage of the time in whole of Asia. This fort is divided in two segments: the upper part acted as fort and watering station, while the lower part served as a safe berth for Portuguese ships. Whereas the upper part has a moat, underground water storage chamber, gunpowder room, lighthouse, and bastions, it also has a secret escape passage to use during time of war and emergency. The lighthouse at the initial stage is used to emit light once in 7 minutes.
Fort Aguada was the most prized and crucial fort of Portuguese. The fort is so large that it envelops the entire peninsula at the southwestern tip of Bardez. Built on the mouth of Mandovi River, it was strategically located and was the chief defense of Portuguese against the Dutch.
During the Salazar Administration, Fort Aguada was repurposed for use as a prison primarily, some claim, for Salazar's political opponents.
Aguada lighthouse
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Fort Aguada :
What is the history of Fort Aguada?
- Fort Aguada was built in 1612 by the Portuguese to protect against Dutch and Maratha invaders. The fort’s name, “Aguada,” means “watering place” in Portuguese, as it provided fresh water to passing ships.
Where is Fort Aguada located?
- Fort Aguada is located in Sinquerim, near the mouth of the Mandovi River in Goa, India. It overlooks the Arabian Sea, offering stunning views.
What are the main attractions at Fort Aguada?
- The fort features a lighthouse, a large underground water storage chamber, and a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Good Voyage. The lighthouse, built in 1864, is one of the oldest in Asia.
What are the entry fees and timings for Fort Aguada?
- The entry fee is INR 25 for Indian citizens and INR 300 for foreign nationals. The fort is open to visitors from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
What is the best time to visit Fort Aguada?
- The best time to visit is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds.
How can I reach Fort Aguada?
- Fort Aguada is approximately 18 kilometers from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. It is well-connected by road, and visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from Panaji. The nearest railway station is in Thivim, about 20 kilometers away.
Is there any accommodation near Fort Aguada?
- Yes, there are several hotels and resorts near Fort Aguada, ranging from budget to luxury options. Popular nearby beaches like Sinquerim and Candolim also offer various accommodation choices.
What safety precautions should I take while visiting Fort Aguada?
- Visitors should wear comfortable footwear as there is a lot of walking involved. It’s also advisable to carry water, wear sunscreen, and be cautious near the edges of the fort walls.
I hope this helps! If you have any more questions or need further details, feel free to ask. Have you planned a visit to Fort Aguada soon?
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