Cabo de Rama Fort in Goa takes its name from the hero of the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. This fort of Goa is also known as "Cape Rama Fort". Cabo de Rama Fort is the largest and one of the oldest forts of Goa. The fortress occupies an impressive area of nearly 180,000 sq m. Cabo de Rama is located 16 km north from Aguada Beach, on the same-named cape, which conventionally divides South Goa beaches into two groups.
Etymology of Cabo de Rama Fort
According to a legend Lord Rama with Sita stayed in this place for sometime during his exile from his kingdom of Ayodhya. The place was turned into a fort before the arrival of the Portuguese in India and was annexed by them from the hands of the local rulers.
History of Cabo de Rama Fort
On conquering the fort from the Raja of Soonda, the Portuguese built their own citadel but it was soon destroyed. In the past, the fort has switched hands between Hindu, Muslim monarchs and the Portuguese and witnessed many battles in history. Presently only the remains of the fort are visible along with the crumbling turret and a few rusty Old Portuguese cannons. The Portuguese equipped it with 21 guns and military barracks, as well as commandant quarters and a chapel. It was abandoned when the Portuguese left this place. Till 1955 the British used the fort as a prison. The fort was later captured by the Marathas. Fort Cabo de Rama thus bears the impact of the early fierce battles of the rulers. Today, this fort is in ruins, but is a popular tourist attraction of Goa.
During its history of 100 of years, the fort has been occupied by a number of rulers thus having several additions made to the original fort. It was also occupied by the British troops for some time.
Structure of Cabo de Rama Fort
Inside the Cabo de Rama Fort, there is the church of St. Antonio which is in excellent condition and is still used by devotees. The contrasting white of the church against the black stonewall of the fort gives a magnificent look to the church. Cliffs drop steeply to the Arabian Sea provide a panoramic outlook of the surrounding areas, at the western side of the fortress. Thus the amazing view offered by the fort also attracts tourists in great numbers. The fort provides majestic views of the entire length of Colva beach and the Canacona stretch. Presently the fort is an observatory where scientists from the National Institute of Oceanography reside and work.
How to Reach Cabo de Rama Fort
Cabo de Rama Fort is situated about 18 kilometres from Palolem Beach. Regular Bus services are available from Madgaon to Cabo De Rama. Cabs can be hired from Canacona or Palolem.
