Goa, India is known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and unique culture. But nestled along the coastline of Goa lies a significant piece of history that has stood the test of time- the Aguada Lighthouse.
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Introduction to Aguada Lighthouse
The Aguada Lighthouse is situated on top of the Aguada Fort, a 17th-century Portuguese fortification located at the mouth of the Mandovi River in Sinquerim, Goa. The lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Asia, built-in 1864 during the Portuguese rule in India. It was built to guide ships and vessels entering the Mandovi River and to prevent shipwrecks. The lighthouse still stands tall and proud, serving its purpose of safeguarding sailors and boats alike.
History of Aguada Lighthouse
The construction of the Aguada Lighthouse was an initiative of the Portuguese colonial government in India. It was built under the supervision of the Governor-General of Portuguese India, Count of Rio Pardo, at a cost of Rs. 13,000. The lighthouse was designed by the engineer, J. Gomes, and built by the Portuguese mason, Francisco Luis Gomes.
During the colonial era, the lighthouse played a crucial role in the Portuguese trade with other countries. It also served as a watchtower, warning of impending attacks from enemy ships. The Aguada Fort, which houses the lighthouse, is a testament to the Portuguese architecture and engineering of the time. The fort was built with the intention of guarding the Mandovi River against Dutch and Maratha attacks.
Architecture and Design of Aguada Lighthouse
The Aguada Lighthouse stands tall at a height of 42 meters and is situated on top of the four-story fort. The lighthouse has a circular tower with a diameter of 8.76 meters at the base and 3.84 meters at the top. The walls of the tower are 3.8 meters thick at the base and 2.4 meters thick at the top. The tower has a spiral staircase with 160 steps leading to the top, where the light is situated.
The light is produced by a metal halide lamp, which is visible from a distance of 25 nautical miles. The lighthouse is painted white and red, with the topmost part painted black. The unique design of the lighthouse makes it an iconic symbol of Goa’s history and heritage.
Tourism at Aguada Lighthouse
The Aguada Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination in Goa. Visitors can climb up the spiral staircase to reach the top of the tower and witness the breathtaking panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscape. The lighthouse also offers a glimpse into the colonial past of Goa, with its rich history and heritage.
Preservation and Restoration of Aguada Lighthouse
Over the years, the Aguada Lighthouse has undergone several restorations and renovations to maintain its structural integrity. The lighthouse was damaged during the 1961 Goa liberation movement, but it was restored to its former glory by the Archaeological Survey of India.
In recent years, the Goa Tourism Development Corporation has taken steps to preserve the lighthouse and make it accessible to visitors. The lighthouse is now maintained by the Corporation, which has also established a small museum within the fort to showcase the history and significance of the Aguada Lighthouse.
Conclusion
The Aguada Lighthouse is a historical icon of Goa, symbolizing the rich cultural and colonial past of the region. It stands tall as a testament to the engineering and architectural skills of the Portuguese during their rule in India. The l
The lighthouse continues to serve its purpose of guiding ships and vessels safely through the Mandovi River. It has also become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who are fascinated by its unique design and historical significance.
FAQs
The lighthouse stands at a height of 42 meters.
The lighthouse was designed by the engineer, J. Gomes.
Yes, visitors can climb the spiral staircase to reach the top of the tower.
The Aguada Fort was built to guard the Mandovi River against enemy attacks during the colonial era.
The Goa Tourism Development Corporation maintains the lighthouse and has established a museum within the fort to showcase its history and heritage.