Information on Alorna Fort (Goa) - History & Architecture

Alorna Fort, which is also termed as 'Halarn Fort', is one of the eldest fortresses in Goa. It is located in Mapusa town of Goa. Alorna Fort was created by Bhonsles, a protuberant warrior clan who ruled several states in India. The fort was established during 17th century for safeguarding against the assaults from Maratha rulers. Alorna Fort provides great sight of the nearby river and land. However, at present the fort has become an abandoned place and is occupied with wild vegetation.

Alorna Fort Architecture

The architecture of Alorna Fort is based on exclusive defence system in order prevent the attack from Maratha. Traditionally, there was about 4 cannon stations, but presently only 2 cannon stations can be visible. Although at present, the fort is in ruined condition, still the scenic beauty enroots the key aspect of Alorna Fort. The scenery of the fort is quite breath taking. From Alorna Fort, long fields and the beautiful highland can be observed.

From many other constructions, there remains only one individual building inside Alorna Fort and also no inhabitants are found nearby. There is also a deep well which can be found in Alorna Fort. In the fort there was various watchtowers, but presently only two watchtowers in the front side of the fort are undamaged. The watchtowers in the back side of the fort have vanished completely. In front side of the fort, there is Chapora River and at the other side of the fort, there is green paddy fields. There are many trees grown in that area and most common of them all is banana tree. The fort is presently incorporated in the list of protected memorials, recognised by the government of Goa. However, the governmental authorities have not taken any strong measures in order to restore it.

Alorna Fort History

Alorna Fort is one of the most important historical heritages of Goa. It is above 3 centuries old. Although it was created by Bhonsles, but in sequence of occasions it was taken by various rulers within short period of time. Bhonsles have engaged in several combats through Alorna Fort against Portuguese intruders. The first Portuguese intruder of Alorna Fort was Marquis. He took control over the fort in the year 1746. Marquis also obtained a new acknowledgement over his triumph on Alorna Fort where Bhonsles titled him as 'Marquis of Alorna'. However, his rule over Alorna Fort was quite short as in the year 1781, Dom Frederico Guilherme, another Portuguese ruler attacked the fort and took control over it. Afterwards, various Portuguese rulers took advantage of the position of Alorna Fort particularly to safeguard themselves from the attacks of Maratha.

At present, Alorna Fort have become a ruined place which had witnessed various other invasions in the past centuries. The cannon stations which are presently viewable in Alorna Fort demonstrates the defence mechanism of the traditional time. According to archaeologists, Alorna Fort repeats about the detriments made by the defenders of the fort who died while fighting against the intruders.

Alorna Fort Tourism Importance

Alorna Fort has rich history, but at present it is in a decrepit condition. Nevertheless, it is a good place to discover the traditional architecture and to enjoy the attractive beauty. Alorna Fort is situated in remarkably charming location where travellers can oversee the Chapora river. Furthermore, travellers can also obtain magnificent view of Goa along with lavish greenery from Alorna Fort.