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Worli Fort

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Worli Fort
वरळी किल्ला
Worli koliwada, Mumbai, India
Worli Fort
Worli Fort is located in Mumbai
Worli Fort
Worli Fort
Coordinates19°01′26″N 72°49′00″E / 19.0238°N 72.8166°E / 19.0238; 72.8166
Site information
OwnerIndia Government of India
Controlled by British Raj (1675-1947)
Open to
the public		Yes
Site history
Built1675 (1675)
Old map of the region (post 1805).

The Worli Fort is a fort in Worli, Mumbai, India.[1] Though often incorrectly assumed to have been built by the Portuguese, the fort was built by the British around 1675 on Worli Hill. Worli Fort overlooked Mahim Bay at a time when the city comprised just seven islands and was used as a lookout for enemy ships.

The centuries-old village is home to one of the oldest communities of fisherfolk which is still existing in Mumbai.[2]

The area around Worli Hill is also known for its fossils and geology[3]

History[edit]

Worli Fort traces its origins back to the 17th century when it was constructed by the Portuguese as a strategic outpost to protect their territories along the western coast of India. The fort served as a defensive structure guarding the southern approach to the island of Bombay (now Mumbai) and the entrance to the Mahim Bay.[4][5]


In 1661, control of Bombay was transferred from the Portuguese to the British as part of the dowry of Catherine of Braganza upon her marriage to Charles II of England. Subsequently, Worli Fort came under British rule, and it underwent several modifications and reinforcements over the years to strengthen its defenses.[6]

Architecture and Design[edit]

Worli Fort is built using locally available basalt rock, characteristic of many forts in the region. The fortification consists of sturdy ramparts, bastions, and gateways, typical of Portuguese military architecture of the time. The fort originally housed barracks, ammunition storage facilities, and living quarters for the garrison.

The strategic location of Worli Fort provides panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Mumbai coastline, making it a popular tourist attraction and a favorite spot for locals to enjoy breathtaking sunsets.

Significance[edit]

Worli Fort played a crucial role in Mumbai's maritime history, serving as a sentinel against potential invasions and attacks from the sea. It was one of several coastal forts that formed a defensive network around the island of Bombay, safeguarding its trading interests and maritime routes.[7]

In addition to its military significance, Worli Fort holds cultural importance as a heritage site that reflects Mumbai's colonial past and architectural heritage. The fort stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its builders and serves as a reminder of the city's historical evolution.

Present Day[edit]

Today, Worli Fort is a popular tourist destination and a recreational spot for locals. Visitors can explore the fort's ruins, walk along its ramparts, and soak in the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. The fort's proximity to the Worli Sea Face promenade makes it easily accessible to tourists and residents alike.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ Murray, John (1859). A handbook for India. Part ii. Bombay. Original from Oxford University. p. 272.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  2. ^ Nambiar, Sridevi (5 December 2016). "A Brief History Of Mumbai's Worli Fort". Culture Trip. Retrieved 20 June 2022.
  3. ^ Singh, S.D. (2000). "Petrography and Clay Mineralogy of Intertrappean Beds of Mumbai, India". Journal Geological Society of India. 55.
  4. ^ Maharashtra State Gazetteers: Greater Bombay District - 1987
  5. ^ Greater Bombay District Gazetteer - 1986
  6. ^ "Worli Fort: A Glimpse into Mumbai's Rich History" - Mumbai Mirror, 2019
  7. ^ "Worli Fort - A Historical Gem of Mumbai" - Indian Express, 2020

External links[edit]

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