The Diu Fort is considered one of the architectural gems for all the right reasons. Along with the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, Diu Fort was listed as the seven wonders of Portugal, under the reign of this dynasty in India. Once known as ‘Praça de Diu’ this fort cum castle is now under the administration of the Indian government and is open to tourists who come from all around the world to enjoy the magnificent view of the sea from the edge of the fort. In this article, we shall pay a little more attention to the history and other aspects of this iconic fort. So keep reading. 

History Of The Mighty Diu Fort

The history of the land where the fort stands are linked to many kings and dynasties before the king of Portugal captured the land and built the fort. The purpose of building this fort was to provide protection from the enemies and strengthen the flourishing spice trade of the Portuguese in India. Today, after 424 years since laying the foundation, the Diu Fort stands tall and provides a close insight into the rich history of ancient India and the impeccable military defences of the Portuguese. 

Architecture Of The Diu Fort

The fortress is located in the Diu town of Gujarat. It is surrounded by waters on three sides and provides a magnificent view of the sea. It is divided into three different segments. The outer wall was built along the coastline to provide protection from the smashing waves of the seas. The inner wall is mounted with guns and cannons for protection against the enemies. There is a double moat, built from sandstone, which stands between the two walls to protect the fort. 

The fort has three gates and the one used as the main entrance has five large windows with stone galleries. A bridge with Portuguese inscriptions engraved in it leads to the main gate. In fact, opposite the Diu Fort, there is the Panikota fort which was used as a jail for the island and is known as the Diu Fort Jail. 

Location Of Diu Fort

The fort and the town are delimited on the east by the state of Gujarat, on the west by the Arabian Sea, on the south by the Kalai river and on the north by the Kolak river. It borders the district of Daman, the town of Valsad and the Junagarh district of Gujarat. 

Reaching the fort is not a task. Moreover, you can easily get any cab or private transport from Delwada railway station, which is the nearest railway station. You can also rent bikes or cars from rentals near railway stations and airports to visit the Diu Fort. 

Tips To Make Your Visit Memorable

• The Diu Fort provides a spatular view of sunset so ensure that you wait long enough to enjoy that. 
• A couple of hours is more than enough to explore the fort so you can plan your visit accordingly. 
• Hire a guide if you want to learn about the Portuguese culture and its rich history. 
• The fort demands its visitors to walk around the entire complex for the best experience. Therefore, ensure that you wear comfortable shoes that allow you to walk for hours without any problems. 

Therefore, that was a brief overview of the mighty Diu Fort. If you have visited the fort and have some interesting stories to share, write to us in the comments below.

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