Fort Diu, located on the Western coast of Indian was built by Portuguese during their colonial rule and is now under the administration of Indian government. The fort- cum - castle, is known as 'Praça de Diu' in Portuguese, is situated on the southern tip of Gujarat and is at the mouth of the Gulf of Khambhat.
The Fort of Diu is a colossal structure that occupies a prominent place on the tourist's list. The enchanting fort commands a magnificent view of the sea, and a jetty constructed on the northwestern coast is still underused and was once used to trade with Cambay, Broach and Surat in Gujarat. The lighthouse that one can climb leads to the highest point on the island and provides a spectacular view of the surrounding. Cannonballs litter the entire place, and the parapet has a fantastic array of cannons.
Along with the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, Diu fort was listed as the seven wonders of Portugal but during their colonial rule. This new achievement further highlighted the importance of the fort and put it on the world tourism map. Diu fort forms a striking structure on the coast of the island.
DAY 1 :
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi
Located on a hilltop, the layout of the church is similar to the churches in Europe. The entrance can be accessed by a long flight of stairs in northern and eastern direction. It was built in the year 1593 and now functions as a hospital.
St. Paul's Church
This church was built between 1601 and 1610 and consecrated to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. Made in a colonial Portuguese Baroque style, it has a huge patio terrace and a notable Baroque facade having rich wood panelling. The church was later refurbished in 1807 and is now closed to the public.
St. Thomas Church
Built in the year 1598, the church is now used as a museum. Mass is held only once a year on 1 November. It is one of the few churches in India that has Gothic style architecture. The museum is an archaeological treasure housing a fantastic collection local artefacts, stone inscriptions of ancient rulers, antique idols, statues and sculptures, wood carvings and shadow clocks.
Shiva Temple
A Shiva temple dedicated to Gangeshwar Mahadev is situated near a cliff in the fort's parameter. According to legends, it was constructed by the Pandavas and thus has five shivalingas of different sizes. The cliff on which the temple is situated has a sea facing entrance. Over the years, the cliff has deteriorated leading to widening up the gates of the temple. Here, the sea waves directly hit the shivalingas and they even submerge during the high tides.
Various Historical Venetian Gothic style bungalows and typical carved wooden or stone havelis are present within the fort's parameters. These belonged to affluent colonial Portuguese and Indian merchants.
1. if you want to learn about Portuguese culture and the various techniques used by them in building this spectacular structure.
2. You need to walk a lot to explore the entire fort complex. So, wear comfortable footwear.
3. Carry sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and water while visiting the fort.
4. Visit the fort in the morning if you wish to escape the crowd.
5. There are a few hawkers selling coconut water and snacks near the entrance of the fortress.
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