|
Forts & Monuments
Compared
to Indian standards, Goan forts are very small in size.
Nonetheless, these were of immense military, political and
economic importance in a land crisscrossed by rivers and
canals and bordered by sea on the west. Where smooth passage
of trade vessels was vital to economy, the control of these
forts in fact determined the economic and political fate
and stability of the rulers. Many forts built in the 16th
century are situated at vantage points on the banks or faces
of the rivers and the sea, controlling the passage of vessels.
The
old monuments, now in ruins due to neglect, disuse, vandalism
and natural destruction, are mute testimony to the joys
and sorrows, and colourful and dark events of a bygone era.
Some are awesome in sheer size like the ruins of the St.
Augustine's Tower, while others are marvellous pieces of
architecture, e.g. the Gate of the Adil Shah's Palace at
Old Goa. In this module, we unravel these silent spectators
of history.
|
