Information on Colvale Fortress (Goa) - History & Architecture

The Fortress of Colvale is located in the banks of the Bardez River in Goa. The fort is specifically positioned in the area of Bardez which falls in the northern region of the state of Goa. The fort is only 9km away from Panaji which further makes it a place within the city.

Colvale Fortress Architecture

The fort has the influence of the Portuguese and Hindu architecture. During the stay of the Marathas in this particular fort, they have redesigned some parts of the monument based on the local architectural style. Though most parts of the fort are ruined, its structural importance can still be comprehended. There are lot of tress within the fort which makes it a soothing place in terms of environment. The fort was primarily made of brick and stone along with mud. The size of the fort is considered to be quite huge and a lot of open spaces are presented. The exterior end of the fort has walls which are quite high that were important for the Portuguese and the Marathas during thier rule as it could help them to stop enemies from entering the fort. It is believed that the interior of the fort once had the bastions and cannons of the Marathas and the Portuguese rulers, but since most parts of the fort has ruined in the present day context, very little traces of the same can be seen.

Colvale Fortress History

Historically, the fort is one of the oldest in Goa. It was primarily constructed in the year 1681 under the reign of the Alvor rulers of Goa. However, later history suggests that the fort was captured by the Marathas in the mid 17th century from which the Marquis of Lourical recaptured the fort in the year 1741. It was used to serve as a residence for the royal families of the Marathas and Marquis of Lourical for a certain period time. Again the fort was also used for Marathas troops as a base camp at time of crisis or war. However, by the year 1841, the use of the fort for any purpose was completely abandoned for which it ruined over the years owing to lack of people management. There are only few traces of the fort that still attract the tourists. Analysis of the historical records suggests the fort was built with the intention to safeguard the Bardez from the enemy. Since, the place is located away from the gatherings of the city area; it provides a soothing and silent atmosphere.

Colvale Fortress Tourism Importance

The fort is seen as an important part of the tourism sector of Goa. Large number of people visit the place despite of the fact that it has very little to offer to the people since most of its parts are ruined in course of time. Furthermore, as the fort is located quite near to the capital city of Goa i.e. Panaji, it has been easy for tourist to visit the place. Additionally, there is no specific entry fee to get inside the fort and one can visit the same at any time of the day. As the fort is positioned at quite a height, visitors might deal with breathing difficulties owing to the lack of oxygen balance in the place. Overall, the place offers a pleasant stay for the people especially owing to the natural environment it provides.