# Corjuem Fort

- **Country:** India

Corjuem Fort, also known as Fort Assunção, is a historic military installation located on Corjuem Island in the Bardez taluka of Goa, India. Situated approximately four kilometers from the village of Aldona and twelve kilometers from Panjim, the fortress stands on the banks of the Mapusa River, a tributary of the Mandovi. Constructed in 1705 under the orders of Portuguese Viceroy Caetano de Melo e Castro, it was originally built using pitted laterite stone to serve as a strategic defense battery against Maratha aggression. Unlike many coastal fortifications in the region, Corjuem is notable for being one of only two surviving inland forts in Goa, offering visitors expansive views of the surrounding riverine landscape and countryside.

The fort holds significant historical value for its role in protecting Portuguese India during the eighteenth century. It successfully shielded colonial forces from attacks by the Bhonsles and the Ranes, who were camped just across the Mandovi River. Although smaller than other Goan forts, its strategic positioning made it a crucial element in the defense network safeguarding Panjim. The structure remained under Portuguese control until 1961, after which it became part of independent India. Today, it is recognized as a protected monument under the Goa, Daman and Diu Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, preserving its legacy as a testament to the region's colonial military history.

Currently, the fort is decommissioned but remains open to the public. While it had fallen into disrepair over time, the site is undergoing extensive restoration efforts scheduled for completion in March 2026. These renovations aim to revive the structure for heritage tourism, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Despite its modest size compared to neighboring fortresses, Corjuem Fort continues to attract history enthusiasts and tourists interested in its unique inland location and its pivotal role in defending Goa against regional invaders centuries ago.

![Photo of Corjuem Fort](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/97/Fort_Corjuem.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corjuem_Fort (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)