Korlai

Korlai Fort: Rock of Chaul A pivotal site in history! In 1521, the Portuguese established control here, building a port and 'machi' after getting permission from the first Burhan Nizam. They controlled the nearby Revdanda fort. In 1594, after Burhan Nizam's death, chaos erupted. The Portuguese started fortifications. Hussein Nizam saw the threat and moved to fortify the mountain himself. A treaty was signed, stopping Nizam's fort construction. However, the second Burhan Nizam succeeded in building a fort. When his Sardar Fattekhan attacked Revdanda, the Portuguese counter-attacked, invading the base village, winning, and capturing Korlai. By 1602, the Portuguese maintained a huge 8000-man garrison to protect the fort. They preserved the citadel, ramparts, storage house, and machi, demolishing the rest. Later, Sambhaji Maharaj made an unsuccessful capture attempt in 1684. In 1739, Chimajiappa launched a strong attack and captured the fort for the Marathas. They renamed the bastions: San Diyago became Pushti, and San Francisco became Ganesh. Korlai eventually became part of independent India.

Start at the first entrance! Explore the Citadel (100m long, 10m wide) and its well-preserved ramparts and old church. Enjoy views where the blue sky meets the seawater, perfect for watching small boats sail. Head west to find 5 bastions, including San Diyago (seaside) and San Francisco (creekside). Descend through seven doorways to the western front, where the ammunition storehouse is located. Cannons were stationed on the western and northern ends, aimed at the sea and Revdanda Fort. Historical note: 70 cannons were found here in 1602. Don't miss "Santa Cruz," a 3m high machi with a cross on the northern end, which also guarded the fort.