Image Source: Aotearoa
About Diu Fortress
Diu Fortress, also known as Fortaleza de Diu or formally Fortaleza de São Tomé, is a prominent Portuguese-built fortification located at the eastern tip of Diu Island, on the west coast of India. Originally controlled by Portugal from the 16th century until 1961, the fort is now under the ownership of the Government of India. Despite partial ruins, it remains largely intact, standing as a testament to the military and architectural prowess of the Portuguese era.
Geographical Setting
Diu Fortress is strategically located at the southern tip of Gujarat’s coast, at the mouth of the Gulf of Cambay. It is bordered to the east by Gujarat, to the west by the Arabian Sea, to the north by the Kolak River, and to the south by the Kalai River. The fort has historically provided sea access for trade with Cambay, Broach (Bharuch), and Surat. Modern visitors can enjoy views of Panikotha Fort (Fortim do Mar), situated offshore, highlighting the fortress’s strategic coastal vantage.
History and Architecture
The fortress was built by the Portuguese Empire, with construction beginning in 1535 and strengthening completed by 1546. To make way for the fort, the Portuguese demolished older fortifications on the island.
Constructed primarily from sandstone and lime mortar, the fort stretches along the coast, commanding expansive views of the Arabian Sea. Its defensive features include an outer wall along the shoreline and an inner wall with gun-mounted bastions, protected by a double moat—one of which is a tidal moat cut through sandstone rock.
The fortress originally had three gates, with the main gate featuring five large windows with stone galleries. Notable bastions include St. George’s bastion at the entrance and others reinforced over time. A jetty on the northwestern side remains in use today, and a large lighthouse sits at one end of the fort.
Visitors can also see several well-preserved bronze cannons, scattered iron shells, landscaped gardens bordered by old artillery, and impressive remnants of walls, arches, ramps, and bastions. The fort is accessible via a permanent bridge, allowing visitors to explore its expansive grounds.
Historical Context
Before Portuguese occupation, Diu was ruled by the Chavda Rajputs in the 9th century, followed by the Vaghela dynasty, and later came under the Gujarat Sultanate.
The Portuguese first attempted to seize Diu in 1501, 1521, and 1531 but failed. In 1535, Sultan Bahadur Shah of Gujarat sought Portuguese assistance against the Mughal Emperor Humayun, allowing the Portuguese to establish the fort under the Treaty of Bassein (1534). Over the years, the fort witnessed numerous conflicts, including the infamous Siege of Diu in 1538 by a Turkish naval force, which ended after heavy bombardment with minimal surviving defenders.
Later attempts by Gujarat rulers in 1545 and 1546 to reclaim the fort were unsuccessful. Afterward, the Portuguese maintained uninterrupted control, although the fort faced pillaging by Muscat bandits in 1670. Finally, in 1961, India launched Operation Vijay to end Portuguese colonial rule, and the fort came under Indian administration. A Martyrs Memorial near the Collectorate office commemorates soldiers who died during this operation.
Significance & Recognition
Today, Diu Fortress is not only a landmark of Diu but also recognized globally as one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese origin. It is a popular tourist destination that embodies rich history, maritime defence ingenuity, and architectural brilliance. The fortress remains a key cultural and historical icon, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of Portuguese colonial influence in India.
By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport, located about 7 km from Diu town. It has regular flights connecting to major cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad. From the airport, taxis or auto-rickshaws can take you directly to the fortress.
By Train: Diu does not have a railway station. The closest major railway station is Veraval in Gujarat, approximately 120 km away. From there, buses, taxis, or private cabs can be used to reach Diu.
By Road: Diu is well-connected by road. It is around 350 km from Mumbai and 105 km from Surat. Regular bus services, private taxis, and rental cars can be used to reach Diu from nearby cities. Once in town, the fortress is accessible via a permanent bridge connecting it to the main Diu town.