While many of Goa's forts have been lucky enough to be restored, there are others which have not had this luxury like the St. Estevam Fort in Juvem village, located a short distance from Panaji.
This particular fort has had a very chequered and colourful history thanks to its legacy of being won over first by the Adil Shah of Bijapur, followed by the Portuguese colonists, then by Sambhaji after which the Portuguese won it all over again. Given its position along the Mandovi river, the fort was a much sought after one in the era when swords and guns ensured smooth facilitation of the spice trade.
Historians say that the strategic value of the fort was such that the sentinel would look over the nearby areas of Narve, Divar and Bicholim as well as keep an eye on the goings-on in the Mandovi river.
What you can look for at the fort is a striking statue of Christ the King, which is a popular haunt for locals and makes for a great photo opportunity especially at sunset.
St Estevam Fort
Juvem, St Estevam
