The Historical Fort Anjediva on India's Coastline: A Portuguese Legacy

Fort Anjediva, a strategic military fortress located on Anjediva Island off the coast of Karnataka, India, holds a significant place in the region's history. This fort was constructed in the late 16th century by the Portuguese during the Age of Discovery. It played a crucial role in the Portuguese naval dominance in the Arabian Sea and served as a protective measure against potential invasions.

Construction and Significance

The fort was built by Don Francisco de Almeida, the Viceroy for King Emanuel of Portugal, in 1505. This construction was part of the broader Portuguese strategy to establish a strong presence in the region following their conquest of Goa in the 15th century. The strategic importance of the fort cannot be understated, as it served to protect the coastline and the sea routes from potential threats.

Location and History

Anjediva Island is a small but significant territory, measuring only about 2.5 km2. It has a rich history that dates back to the time of Ptolemy, who wrote about it. The island lies approximately 1800 m from the coast of Uttar Kannada district, 4 km south of Karwar, and 87 km south of Goa. Despite its small size, Anjediva Island has a legal status that makes it part of Goa, a state in India.

The island is currently uninhabited, with the Indian Navy running it as a part of its Kadamba Naval Base. In the 19th century, a few hundred people lived on the island, but today, it is primarily used for naval purposes and some tourism.

The Construction of Fort Anjediva

The first Fort Anjediva was built in 1505 by Don Francisco de Almeida after he ordered its construction. However, it was destroyed just seven months later during the Afonso de Albuquerque assault that culminated in the conquest of Goa in 1510. The fort played a crucial role in supporting the Portuguese during their campaigns, with the island serving as an important supply base.

Another significant historical event was when Vasco da Gama declared Anjediva to be part of the Portuguese Empire on September 24, 1498. The island remained unoccupied until 1661, when the English briefly settled there, hoping for the implementation of the Treaty of July 23, 1661, which should have granted them Bombay. However, the Treaty's stipulations were ultimately transferred to the English East India Company in 1665.

The Current State of Fort Anjediva

Today, Fort Anjediva lies in ruins, but it remains an important historical site. The island is home to two ancient churches: the Church of Our Lady of Springs, which was constructed in 1505, and the Chapel of St. Francis D'Assissi, which is now in ruins. These remnants offer insight into the period when Portugal dominated the region.

Conclusion

Fort Anjediva stands as a testament to the Portuguese influence in India during the Age of Discovery. Its strategic location and historical significance make it an important site for both tourists and historians interested in exploring the rich history of the region.