Kolaba Fort- The Magnificent Sea Fortress
Situated in the sea, at a distance of 1-2 km from the shores of Alibag, stands the magnificent sea fortress named Kolaba. This ancient military fortification in the Konkan region of Maharashtra is an extremely popular tourist destination.
History:
Kolaba meaning cape was built by Shivaji Maharaj to keep an eye on the actions of naval powers of the English, the Portuguese and the Siddhi of Janjira. It was one of his chief naval stations that became the centre of Maratha attacks on British ships under the command of Darya Sagar and Manik Bhandari. At that time, this place was used for building magnificent huge ships, later to become the main place of Maratha’s Armada in North Konkan.
In 1713, in a treaty with Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, Kolaba along with several other forts was handed over to Kanhoji Angre. He used Kolaba as his main base from where he began to launch raids on British ships.
In the year 1722, Bombay Government provoked by Angre’s activities, joined hands with the Portuguese in an expedition against Kolaba. A Portuguese land force along with three English ships under Commodore Mathews co-operated but ended up as a failed attempt.
Architecture Wonder:
This 300 year old defensive structure has walls or mounds built around a stronghold to strengthen it. The arch at the entrance of the fort has marvellous carvings of tigers, peacocks, and elephants. The fort has walls standing 25 feet tall and has two main doors, one opening to the sea side and the other heading towards Alibaug.
Near the gate there are shrines of Mahishasura, Padmavathi and other gods along with the fort deity. The fort also houses a Siddhivinayak temple that was built by Raghoji Angre in 1759. A Ganesha temple was built in front of the sweet water tank in 1759.
A captivating part of this fort is that even though it surrounded by the sea it manages to have freshwater wells.
Know more:
One can reach the fort by wading through waist-deep water during low tide. However, during high tide it is a must to use a boat to get there.
A token entry fee for the visitors is charged by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Due to its proximity to Alibaug, you can take a halt at any of the restaurants or guest houses there.
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well researched, very informative!