Terekhol Fort Goa

Terekhol Fort Goa Information :

Location : Pernem taluka, North Goa district
Construction Period : 17th century
Constructed by : Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle, the Raja of Sawantwadi
Highlights : Church of St. Anthony

About the Terekhol Fort in Goa :

Terekhol Fort situated on the northern bank of the Terekhol river was built by the Raja of Sawanwadi. It was captured by the Portuguese viceroy, Dom Pedro de Alameida in 1746. The church and the fort were rebuilt then. In 1825 it served as the base for armed revolt by the first Goan born Viceroy of Goa, Dr. Bernardo Peres da Silva against the Portuguese forces.

Terekhol Fort was a key Portuguese fort for the defence of Goa, situated on the north side of the estuary of the Terekhol river, the northern most boundary of Goa. Customarily marked by turrets and a surrounded by a ditch it overlooks the panoptic ocean. In the middle of the fort is the church with a Goan façade. The fort presently houses a tourist hotel. The tranquility of the place is accentuated by the confluence of the serene sea and the river.

Guarding the river:

The grand Terekhol fort in Goa stands guard on the bank of the river Terekhol, which also gives the fort its name. It was built by the king of Sawanwadi. This fort was eyed by the Portuguese, especially the then viceroy Dom Pedro De Almeida in 1746. The Portuguese preferred to rebuild the fort and also established a church in the vicinity. This fort was seeped in history owning to the armed revolt between the first viceroy of Goa and the stubborn Portuguese forces. The consequence of this was the rise in importance of the Terekhol fort for the Portuguese, who also considered it as a key fort for the defense of Goa. Currently, the fort still guards the river even as it overlooks the ocean. However, the fort has very little to guard in its tranquil surroundings and peaceful environment. It houses a heritage hotel and invites tourists from far and wide who are drawn to this magnificent fort because of its great architectural style and the priceless view of the ocean.

Defining features:

The Terekhol fort in Goa is very well known its glorious history and legends of its past. It’s architectural style throws light on the battles of the past as well as its surviving ability. This fort is also a major tourist attraction and attracts visitors from far and wide. The fort is also famous for its scenic atmosphere and can be best described as an important landmark of Goa.

How to Reach Terekhol Fort :

The tiny enclave of Terakol, the northernmost tip of Goa, can reached by a clapped-out car ferry from the hamlet of Querim, 42-km from Panjim.