Aguada Fort in Goa stands tall on the Arabian Sea and dates back to the 17th Century. It is a testament to the craftsmanship of the architects of the day. It is a fort of great historical importance and a popular heritage site in Goa. Many visit it as a famous tourist attraction with a rich history. The intricate detailing of the Fort adds to its magnificence.
About Aguada Fort In Goa
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The construction of Fort Aguada started by the Portuguese in 1609 and ended in 1612. The name of the Fort comes from the word “agua,” which literally translates to water. A freshwater spring was inside the fort, an added advantage that had the capacity to hold 2,376,000 gallons of water. It was built to provide water to the ships that stopped here, which was quite often.
The Portuguese had faced many attacks, so the construction of the Fort became a very important need in the interest of safety. The fort’s significance back in the day was to protect Old Goa from the Dutch and Maratha invaders or any other enemies. The decision to decide where to build the Fort was also very strategic. For them to stay aware of any movements in the sea by their rivals, the fort was built in Sinquerim Beach.
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Architecture Of The Aguada Fort
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Not only is the Aguada Fort aesthetically pleasing, but more than the aesthetic appeal of the Fort, it is the practicality and the logic that went behind building it, after all, it was built to protect it against intruders. One of the most fascinating things about the fort was the secret passageway to escape from there during emergencies such as a war. The fort can be said to have two divisions. The upper one was the fort and also where the ships used to be supplied with water from the freshwater spring and the lower one was where the ships used to be basically ‘parked’.
Another feature of the lighthouse was to of course guide the ships in the sea to be able to safely reach the shore with its light from even miles and miles away. The collection of weapons, the thick walls surrounding the courtyard, and to add to that there was a moat all around the fort, which is a ditch filled with water to provide extra protection, are proof enough that there was a lot of thought that went into making the fort a strong defence against any possible attack.
Aguada Central Jail
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Fort Aguada is a massive fort and one of the components of the fort is the Aguada Central Jail. Up until 2015, it was even the biggest prison in 2015. It was built back in the 17th century itself and since then has even been renovated as part of the Centre’s Swadesh Darshan Scheme which cost approximately 22 crore.
It now is a tribute to the soldiers who stood up as one unit against the Britishers and sacrificed their lives to be freed from colonial rule. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten and the jail where they were once wrongfully convicted, honors them and their heroic actions that led to the free India we live in today. PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the museum very recently in 2021. Ram Manohar Lohia and T B Cunha- two famous freedom fighters who were jailed when the Portuguese ruled- have two cells dedicated to their honour. Learn more about the history of colonial struggle by visiting this museum.
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Why To Add Aguada Fort To Your Itinerary?
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Yes, you must! Fort Aguada is a must-add to your itinerary if you are planning a vacation to Goa. The gorgeous views of the landscapes from the Fort are sure to leave you spellbound. Look out at the Arabian Sea and take in the beautiful picturesque views. It is a must-visit for all history lovers as there is so much to learn about colonial history, the weapons, and the strategic importance of the Fort. If you visit the Fort during October and March, you are in for a treat because the pleasant weather and the wind blowing are surely going to add to your experience.
The beach on which the Aguada Fort is built, the Sinquerim Beach is just stunning and so beautiful. Spend an evening at the beach and enjoy the gorgeous setting sun while you bathe in the sun and sip on your favorite cocktail. The vibrant night-life around the beach can be enjoyed as well! If you are looking to add some thrill and make your trip a little more adventurous, there are such thrilling activities for you to try out such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing which are just some of the wide range of water activities you get to choose from. Go on a long beach walk which starts from here and goes up to Baga, no better way to enjoy the glimmering sand and the calming waves at the shore.
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A trip to Goa promises you the best seat to some of the most stunning architecture of Goa and pretty views that are absolutely gorgeous. The Aguada Fort in Goa is majestic in Goa with a vibrant cultural heritage and is a must-add to your itinerary if you want to explore the stunning architecture of the Aguada Fort and the fascinating history behind it along with its many secrets or if you want some calm away from the chaos, spend a day at the Sinquerim Beach. So, what are you waiting for? Take some days off from work and plan your trip to Goa, a beautiful haven and such a happening place, as soon as possible; we promise it will send you back refreshed and rejuvenated because there is nothing that a glass of drink cannot fix!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Aguada Fort In Goa
When does the Aguada Fort in Goa open?
The church opens at 9:30 a.m. in the morning and closes at 6 p.m. in the evening.
What are some restaurants that I can eat at that are located near the Aguada Fort in Goa?
Enjoy some of the most delicious food at Camino, Latitude, Morisco, Tony’s Shack, and Kokum Kitchen.
When is the best time to visit the Aguada Fort in Goa?
You should definitely plan your trip to the Aguada Fort in Goa during the months of October and March and enjoy the pleasant and cool weather which is definitely going to add to your experience of your trip in Goa.
On what days can I expect the Aguada Fort to be crowded?
You are most likely to find the Aguada Fort in Goa most crowded during that weekend.
What are some great tourist attractions that I can add to my itinerary for Goa along with the Aguada Fort in Goa?
Palolem Beach, Chapora Fort, Reis Magos Fort, Harvelam Waterfalls, Baga Beach, and Cabo De Rama Fort.
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