Pallipuram Fort

Pallipuram Fort is an island fort, which was built by the Portuguese in 1503. It is counted amongst the oldest existing European forts in India. In 1661, the fort was captured by the Dutch; however it was sold to the State of Travancore in 1789. Popularly known as ayikkotta or Alikotta, this hexagonal shaped fort is situated in the northern extremity of the Vypeen Island.

Raised to the height of around 5 ft, the ground floor of the fort comprises a cellar, which was used for storing gun powder. Fort also features gates, door posts and the lintels that are adorned with beautiful carvings. Inside the fort is a square well of dimension 3’3”, which was the source of fresh water during the early period. Towards the north side of the fort, an opening leads to the cellar.

Each face of the fort in 32 ft in length and 34 ft in height along with the 6 ft thick walls. Three embrasures, one above the other, are installed at each face of the fort. This fort has been constructed using laterite, chunam, and wood, while the walls are thickly plastered using mortar.