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Mormugao Fort, Vasco Da Gama

A coastal fort, sprawled over 6 miles, built by the Portuguese in 1624 solely to offer them supremacy against marine attacks, Mormugao Fort is today situated among some of Goa’s most visited tourist attractions like Varca Beach.

Furthermore, it is very close to tourist locations like Margao, the port of Margao and Vaso da Gama. Marmugao Fort is geographically North West of the famous Salsete.

The Historical Significance

The Mormugao Fort was essentially built by the Portuguese to protect the harbour territorial waters in and around the port of Margao. The entrance to the fort, which is bustling with activity as against what is to be usually expected, is inscribed with names such as Dom Fransisco Da Gama and King Dom Fillip.

The inscription is a commemoration to the then Viceroy, and was carved in when the fort was inaugurated. The Viceroy moved into Margao which was essentially the capital of the empire in 1703.

Throughout history, this fort took quite a beating, before eventually being surrendered to the Marathas when the Portuguese decided to settle for Old Goa. The fort today boasts of well-preserved remains of three magazines, five jail cells, 20 bulwarks, a church and accommodation for the fort guards. The fortress is huge, measuring in at over 10 km if measured around the circumference.

Varca beach which is a stone's throw away from the fort is known for its traditional wooden fishing boats and makes for quite a sight!

The best time to visit the Mormugao Fort is in summer. Marmugao fort is one that is closest to Goa’s Dabolim airport, around 4 km south of the city of Vasco Da Gama. Getting to the fort by cab, bus or rickshaw is possible, or one might even decide to rent a bike or a car and drive down.

Mormugao Fort Photos