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Aguada Fort is a well-known historical landmark located on Sinquerim Beach in Goa, India. This magnificent fort has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Built by the Portuguese to protect their territories from enemy invasions, Aguada Fort represents Goa’s colonial past. Let’s dive into the details of Aguada Fort history and explore its fascinating features and facts along with more information on Aguada Fort.
Table of Contents
| Commissioned by | Portuguese Rulers |
| Location | Goa, India |
| Timings | 9:30 am to 6:00 pm; Open Everyday |
| Entry Fee for fort | Free Entry |
| Camera | Allowed and Free |
History of Aguada Fort
The name “Aguada” means watering place in Portuguese, symbolising the freshwater spring within the fort that provided a vital water source to passing ships.
- Aguada Fort was commissioned by the Portuguese rulers in the year 1609.
- The construction was completed under the supervision of Viceroy Ruy Tavara, in the year 1612.
- The main purpose of the fort by the Portuguese was to guard against Dutch and Maratha attacks and to serve as a source of water.
- According to records present, the crews of the sailing ships replenished their stock of portable water from the fort’s spring.
- The fort was strategically built at the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea to provide a stronghold for the Portuguese forces.
- Within the fort, there are two lighthouses erected to also serve as the reference source for the sailing ships coming from Europe.
- In the 19th century, the fort was used as a prison, housing political prisoners during the freedom struggle.
- Till today, Aguada holds the title of never being conquered by an enemy.
Features of Aguada Fort
The architecture of the fort shows the engineering brilliance of the Portuguese military style through laterite stones and has a grandstand of 79 cannons present in the fort. Some other features and things to see inside the fort include –
| Features | Description |
Aguada Lighthouse | The iconic lighthouse at Aguada Fort is a prominent feature that guided ships safely along the treacherous waters of the Arabian Sea. Standing tall at a height of 13 meters, the lighthouse continues to serve as a beacon for maritime navigation |
| The first lighthouse is a four-storied tower which was built in 1864. It was a final destination to British India through the sea route. Until 1976, when a new lighthouse was built named Aguada Lighthouse. | |
Aguada Jail | Within the confines of Aguada Fort lies a historic jail that once housed prisoners of war and political dissidents. |
| The damp and dark cells bear witness to the hardships endured by those held captive within the fort’s walls. | |
Water Reservoir | One of the most impressive features of Aguada Fort is its massive water reservoir, which has a storage capacity of around 237,000 gallons of freshwater. |
| This reservoir supplied freshwater to passing ships, ensuring their sustenance during long sea voyages. | |
Military Port | The fort also boasts about the various chambers, bastions and tunnels within the fort, giving them a glimpse into its military past. |
| It also features a gunpowder room, and a moat and is surrounded on three sides by bastions and the fourth side opens at the mouth of the Mandovi River. |
Also Read – Golconda Fort History: Feature, Timings, Facts & More
Facts about Aguada Fort
- Fort Aguada houses the oldest lighthouse in Asia and is one of such kind in the entire continent.
- The lighthouse used oil lamps to guide ships, and the light was emitted every 7 minutes initially. Later, in 1834, the lighthouse was upgraded to emit light every 30 seconds.
- The lighthouse once had a massive bell, which was originally from the Church of St. Augustine in Old Goa. However, the bell was later moved to the Church of Immaculate Conception in Panjim.
- Aguada Fort is a designated protected site under the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act.
Also Read – Mehrangarh Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More
Timings of Aguada Fort
The timings for visiting the Monument and watching the mesmerising views are –
| Purpose | Timings |
| Entry | 9:30 am to 6:00 pm |
| For Lighthouse Visit – 12:00 pm to 5 pm | |
| Week Entry | Everyday |
| Entry Fee | No Entry Fee |
| For Lighthouse Visit – Rs 20 (changes applicable) | |
| Camera | Free |
Aguada Fort has also been a famous filming location for several Bollywood movies. Some of the notable films shot here include Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa starring Shahrukh Khan, Golmaal and Singham. In conclusion, Aguada Fort is not just a historical landmark but a showcase of the rich cultural heritage of Goa. Its imposing structure, breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, mesmerising sunrises and sunsets with its intriguing history make the fort stand tall today.
Other Attractions near Aguada Fort
| Sinquerim Beach | Sinquerim Fort |
| Church of St. Lawrence | Baga Beach |
| Rocky Beach | Candolim Beach |
| Coco Beach | Reis Magos Fort |
Relevant Blogs
That’s all about Aguada Fort history! If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our general knowledge page! Alternatively, you can also read our blog on general knowledge for competitive exams!