Forts and Monuments in Diu
Diu Fort
Diu fort today stands as a reminder of Portugal rule over the island. It
is believed that the present Diu Fort was constructed on the ruins of
another fort built by the Arabs in 1400 AD. This Portuguese Fort
PraSa-de-Diu was built between 1535 and 1541 AD. It is an imposing
structure and offers to the visitors a picturesque view of the
magnificent sea. It is covered by the sea on three sides, with its outer
wall built along the coastal line. There is a beautiful giant Light
House, with several canons scattered at the top. There are three entry
gates, with Portuguese inscriptions. The main front wall has five large
windows with stone galleries. There are iron shells scattered around in
the fort area.
The fort has a charming pretty garden. In the evenings, one can get a splendid view of the Panikotha Fort located in the sea, opposite to the Diu Fort. At night, colourful lights beautifully light up the fort and offer breath-taking views to the visitors. Inside the fort, there are churches, museum and a jail. The bastions, inscriptions, gateways, arches inside the fort transport you to a different era – an era of brave soldiers and military forces. Along the Fort Road, there are numerous hotels, houses and resorts for the visitors. You can visit the fort between 7 am to 6 pm.
Zampa Gateway
The Zampa Gateway is considered to be the main entrance to Diu city wall. The town of Diu is sandwiched between this Gateway to its west and the Fort on the east. This striking red monument is one of the prominent landmarks of Diu. It is believed to have been constructed during the medieval period. Its aesthetic beauty is a reflection of the architectural brilliance of the artisans in those days. There are carvings of angels, lions and a priest on this Gateway. It also has a chapel with inscription, dating back to the year 1702. The architectural beauty of this place leaves the visitors spellbound and raptured. An artificially created waterfall, the Zampa Waterfall nearby, adds to its visual beauty.
Fortress of Panikotha
Located at the opening of a creek, this magnificent structure, also called Fortim – do – Mar is home to a light house and a tiny chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Sea. Known for its excellent stone structure, it offers wonderful, picturesque views, when seen from the Diu Fort, jetty or the Ghoghla village. Special light effects at night, add to its beauty. Located in the heart of the sea, motor launches, canoes, tourist boats are available to reach the Panikotha Fort. It is even said that this structure was once connected with the land by an undersea tunnel. Its mesmerising beauty has managed to capture the fancy of the filmmakers and one can get to see this beautiful monument in the popular Bollywood movie, ‘Qayamat’.
