Colvale Fort Goa – History of Fortaleza de São Sebastião de Colvale

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Colvale Fort is also well known as O Fortaleza de São Sebastião de Colvale. This fort was constructed in 1635 on the order of D. Miguel de Noronha, Conde de Linhares, Viceroy of the Portuguese State of India. Moreover, its fortifications were constructed to protect the northern borders of Bardez taluka in 1681. But now, it has mostly vanished.

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Its most famous fights took place in the mid-eighteenth century. The Marathas took it in 1739, but the Portuguese reclaimed it in 1741. However, when Portuguese troops arrived in Mapusa a century later, the fort was neglected by them.

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If you’re a history enthusiast or enjoy exploring old architecture, then the fort is a must-see. The Colvale Fort Goa is also a renowned tourist attraction. It creates curiosity in archaeology among the visitors. Tivim Fort is another name for the fort, which stands on the banks of the Bardez River. Colvale fort is also known for being one of Goa’s most destroyed forts, attracting many visitors.

Fort Colvale Goa Address: Fort Colvale Goa India is one of the important tourist attractions. It offers a pleasant and relaxing environment. It is located near the Bardez River. On the west coast of India and in the northern region of Goa, this fort can be found.

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Colvale Fort Goa History
The fort is one of Goa’s oldest historical structures. It was built principally in 1681, during the reign of the Alvor Lords of Goa. However, later history indicates that the Marathas conquered the fort in the mid-seventeenth century. After some time, the fort was regained by the Marquis of Lourical in 1741. For a period of time, it was used as a house for the royal families of the Marathas and Marquis of Lourical.

During times of crisis or conflict, the fort was also utilised as a base camp for Maratha troops. However, by 1841, the fort was stopped from being used for any activity. It has deteriorated over the years due to a lack of proper management. There are barely a few remains of the fort that continue to draw tourists. According to historical documents, the fort was built to protect Bardez from the enemy. Because the location is away from the city’s crowds, it provides a relaxing and peaceful ambience.

The architecture of Colvale Fort Goa
The architecture of Fort Colvale India influenced the Portuguese and Hindu people. During the Marathas’ stay in this fort, they redesigned several elements of the monument in accordance with local architectural styles. Despite the fact that most of the fort has been destroyed, its structural significance is still being appreciated. The fort has a lot of trees, which makes it a relaxing location in terms of the surroundings.

Brick and stone, as well as mud, were used to construct the fort. The Colvale Goa Fort is regarded to be quite large, with many open spaces. The fort’s exterior end includes thick walls that were vital to the Portuguese and Marathas. During their dominance, they could prevent opponents from accessing the fort. The interior of the fort is thought to have the Marathas’ and Portuguese monarchs’ bastions and cannons. But as most of the fort has been destroyed today, there are fewer traces left for the same.

Colvale Fort is one of the popular forts to explore in Goa. If you love exploring historical places, and ancient architecture, it is one of the most recommended places for you.
The place is accessible from all the major cities in India, and you can choose to travel via various commuting modes. The popular choices are by air, bus, car, and rail.

How to reach Fort Colvale By Air
The total distance from Goa airport to Fort Colvale is approximately 48.0 km. Moreover, it will take about 1 hour and 21 minutes to cover this distance.
You can get a rented car, auto-rickshaw, bus, or taxi from outside the airport. Transport facilities are more convenient in Goa.