Aguada Fort is considered as one of the best places to visit in Goa. This fort was constructed in 1612 by the Portuguese as a measure to protect themselves from the Maratha as well as the Dutch armies. Its nestled proudly on Sinquerim Beach in Goa and houses a lighthouse. This is a four-tiered lighthouse which was once regarded as Asia’s oldest lighthouse.

It’s the most significant feature of this fort but is abandoned for many years now. The authorities built another lighthouse that has now become the most visited attraction here. Also present here is a jail that was used during the administration of Salazar. However, tourists are not allowed inside. 

The Unique Experience

The Aguada Fort is also known as Goa fort. One has to see Aguada Fort in real to appreciate the architectural marvel that is this fortress. It’s the finest example of Portuguese architectural style that has withstood the lashing of time and weather. It was regarded as one among Asia’s largest reservoirs that were used by Portuguese sailors.

You will be left with your jaws dropped when you go atop the fort and view the mesmerizing panoramic beauty of the Arabian Sea. From here, you can also look at the meeting point of the sea with River Mandovi, and this site is entirely out of this world. To visit the unique architecture of this fort, must add Aguada Fort in your Goa tourism.  

History of Fort Aguada goa

Do you know that this fort could never be captured by invaders during the Portuguese Rule of 450 years? Well, its solely because of its strong walls that reach up to 5 meters in height. The width of the fortress walls is about 5 meters. It was in 1612 that the fort’s construction was finished under the supervision of RuyTavara. He was Goa’s Viceroy back then. Positioned on Mandovi’s banks, this fort also houses a gunpowder room and a moat. 

Fort Aguda jail story

Fort Aguada Jail is one of the largest and best-preserved signs of Portuguese influence in Goa. This jail was built in the year 1612. This jail is situated just below the Aguada fort Goa. This jail is the largest prison of Goa. Bypassing time the Goa Tourism Development Corporation decided to convert this jail into a museum.  

More About the Place

There are two portions of this fort. One portion was used by ships to dock while the other was meant to store freshwater for crews. The whole structure of this fort is built of laterite stone and is girded by bastions from all three sides. If you're planning to visit, make sure to incorporate Aguada Fort into your Goa tour package.

What else?

If you don’t mind taking a steeper climb to reach this fort, you can take the footpath route that spans 2 km. For others, there are bikes that are available on rent. You may have to shell anything between Rs 400 to 500 for this.