Castella de Aguada (corruption of Castelo da Aguada, Portuguese for “Fort of the Waterpoint”), also known as the Bandra Fort, is a fort located in Bandra, Mumbai.
Oh, dear reader, do you know where you can find a Portuguese fort, an amphitheater, and a popular hangout spot all in one place? Right here in Mumbai! And the name of this magical place is the Castella de Aguada, or as we call it, the Bandra Fort.
This majestic structure was built in 1640 by the Portuguese, who settled in the area way back in 1534. They built the fort to keep an eye on the Arabian Sea, Mahim Bay, and the island of Mahim, using it as a watchtower to prevent any unwanted visitors from invading the Mumbai Harbour. And let me tell you, the fort was armed to the teeth with seven cannons and guns, ready to defend Mumbai at a moment’s notice.
But as history goes, the British had to ruin the party by demolishing parts of the fort in the early 18th century. They were afraid that the Maratha Empire would take over the fort and use it as a base to attack Mumbai. However, the Marathas did end up capturing the fort in 1739 CE and held it until the First Anglo-Maratha War in 1774 CE. Finally, the British regained control of the fort.
Today, the fort is in ruins, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying its beauty. The fort has undergone renovations and repairs in recent years, and its European-style architecture still stands tall. The fort’s main gateway boasts arched pillars, and the walls have gaps for cannons and guns to fire at inbound enemies.
But what attracts tourists and locals to the Bandra Fort is the breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. It’s the perfect place to spend an evening with a cool sea breeze, hang out with friends and family, or enjoy a romantic date.
And if you’re a fitness freak, this is the place to be. You’ll find many people jogging, walking, or exercising in the adjacent park. Who needs a gym when you have a fort to work out in?
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