Before this present fort build by Portuguese, there was a one fort way long before, even before the arrival of Portuguese in Goa.

In 1683, In order to put the end on Portugal's rule in Goa, Prince Akbar joined the forces of Marathas, who were bitter enemies of his Father Aurangzeb at that time, revolting against his Father; he sought refuge with them and made this place as their base camp. However Portugal had a scary experience with Marathas, after a horrific recovery from Marathas, Portuguese strengthen harder their Northern Defenses, learning from the experience of Maratha they were required to give the shelter for the people of region, this was not before 1717, that this present fort was built.

An awesome site with all sides having steep slopes. The fort stands above the whole upland area having irregular outer plan, outline of the higher slopes, uses the natural contours to add defensive height to the fullest advantage instead of dry ditches being dug.

At the top of the steep approach track on the main gate, which is small and unpretentious for so large fort, is deep and narrow. Depending on their position of the defense requirement, the bastions with their enormous embrasures for cannon are irregularly spaced, each having the cylindrical turret that gives a special character.

Few signs are left inside of the barracks and housing, that once were filled this vast area, even St. Anthony church is disappeared, which was built in his name. Now there are only tumble stones, bushes and herds of goat in the wide expanse of open space. A sea down a natural valley to the beach has awesome and marvelous natural access because of rocky promontories protections.

At its first real test, the fort fell to the Marathas. In 1739 held for 2 years by the old enemy of Portuguese, the Maharaja of Sawantwadi the Hindu ruler of Pernem across the river. By the end of the century it lost its military significance when Goa's border moved northwards, with the acquisition of Pernem as part of the New Conquests. The views in all directions are superb, south over Vagator beach, north across the Chapora river to Pernem and of course, far out to the Arabian Sea in the West. A pleasant place to wander.

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