Fort Mormugao

The rise of Maratha Empire forced the Portuguese to consider moving their capital to Mormugao, a sea-faring trade centre. Constructed in the 17th century, Fort Mormugao overlooks the harbour and has a circumference of nine kilometers. When built, the fort had magazines or rooms to hold gun powder and explosives, prisons, quarters for the military and a chapel, all protected by a tall bulwark surrounding it. The Portuguese eventually moved the capital to Panjim, leaving behind this legacy of Fort Mormugao that is mostly in ruins today. There are two ways to enter the fort. The primary one, a neatly paved path flanked by a garden, is from within the premises of Mormugao Port Trust. Moving closer, the full facade of the eastern side of the fort emerges for you to picture its size and stature. It is more fun though to get off at Headland Sada and then hike towards the harbor for an entry from its sea-facing side. During the 15 minute walk on a hilly road under the shade of a forest, you would cross Peace Point—a port-viewing spot for tourists—before stepping on the staircase of a mysterious-looking fort, almost hidden by the trees. This protected monument is open on all days and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.