Sinquerim Sightseeing - Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada is on every first timers list of must-see in Goa. Situated high upon a cliff on the mouth of the river Mandovi overlooking the Aguada bay the fort was built in the year 1612 for mainly defense purposes. Back then the fort provided water from a freshwater spring inside the premises of the fort to ships that used to anchor there. Hence the fort got its name from this as agua means water in Portuguese.

The fort is so large that it encircles the entire peninsula at the south western tip of Bardez. The Portuguese built it strategically such that it was the key defense against the Dutch and Marathas thus protecting old Goa from enemy attacks. A moat enclosing the fort and 79 canons also protect Fort Aguada. Asias first ever lighthouse is also located here on Fort Aguada. This four-storey structure is the oldest of its kind and is equipped with a church, ammunition rooms and barracks. The fort was a witness to many historical battles and movements that now it is slightly dilapidated. The tower bell which endured decades of weather and damage was finally moved into the Church of Lady of Immaculate Conception. Now the fort is used as the Central Jail where many of its inmates are tourists serving time for drug-related crimes.