St Jerome Fort

St. Jerome Fort, also known as the Daman Fort, is a magnificent fort located in the coastal town of Daman in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Built during the Portuguese colonial period, the fort stands tall as a symbol of Portuguese influence in the region.

The construction of the fort began in 1614 and was completed in 1672. The fort was believed to be built to defend the Portuguese colony from the Mughal and Maratha invaders. The defence is named after St. Jerome, the patron saint of Daman, a Christian scholar and theologian.

The fort is spread over approximately 12,250 square meters and is surrounded by high walls and bastions. The defence has three bastions, namely the São Jerónimo Bastion, the São Paulo Bastion, and the São Filipe Bastion. The reasons were used to house artillery and to provide a vantage point for the soldiers to defend the fort.

The fort has two gateways, the Main Gate and the Sea Gate, decorated with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The Main Gate is adorned with a statue of St. Jerome, while the Sea Gate is decorated with a Portuguese coat of arms.

Inside the fort are several buildings, including a church, a chapel, a prison, and a residence for the governor. The church, dedicated to Our Lady of the Sea, is a beautiful example of Portuguese colonial architecture. The chapel, dedicated to St. Jerome, is also a remarkable structure.

The fort is surrounded by a moat, which used to be filled with water from the Arabian Sea. The canal is now dry, but it adds to the grandeur of the fort.

The fort is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination in Daman. The defence offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. The fort also provides a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

Places To Visit Near St Jerome Fort:

St. Jerome Fort, located in the coastal town of Diu, is a well-preserved historical site that attracts tourists interested in exploring the history and culture of this region. Here are some of the places to visit nearby the fort:

Diu Museum:

Located inside the old St. Thomas Church, the Diu Museum houses a collection of artefacts, sculptures, and inscriptions from the region's Portuguese and Indian history. Visitors can see paintings, maps, and portraits of the Portuguese governors who once ruled the area.

Diu Fort:

Another important historical site in Diu is the Diu Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. The fort offers panoramic views of the sea and the town of Diu and has several interesting features, including a lighthouse, a chapel, and a jail.

Naida Caves:

These natural caves are located on the outskirts of Diu and are famous for their beautiful rock formations and intricate carvings. Visitors can explore the caves on foot and see the stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years.

Jallandhar Beach:

This beautiful beach is located near the Diu Fort and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also go boating and enjoy the stunning sea and fort views.