Corjuem Fort

Corjuem Fort is a historic Portuguese fortress located on the river island of Corjuem in North Goa, situated across the Mapusa River from Aldona. Originally built in 1550 and rebuilt by the Portuguese in 1705, it served as a strategic defense against Maratha invasions and later functioned as a military school. The square-shaped laterite fort features bastions at each corner and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and river. It is currently under restoration by the Goa State Archaeology Department.

Visitors can explore a small but well-preserved 18th-century Portuguese fortification constructed of laterite stone with four corner bastions and ramparts accessible via ramp-like stairs. The site includes a deep well, remnants of living quarters, and a chapel dedicated to St. Anthony. From its elevated position, the fort provides scenic views of the Mapusa River and the cable suspension bridge connecting Corjuem to Aldona. Restoration work may be ongoing, and amenities such as toilets are not yet fully available.

Originally built in 1550 and owned by the Bhonsle rulers of Sawantwadi, the fort was captured by Portuguese Viceroy Caetano de Mello e Castro in 1705 to defend against Maratha aggression. It was completely rebuilt in the early 19th century in the trace italienne style and served as a military school (Escola Militar) with a battery of four guns before being decommissioned in 1834.

The fort contains a chapel dedicated to St. Anthony that falls under the parochial church of Aldona, reflecting the integration of Portuguese military architecture with local religious heritage.