Panikota Fort, Daman And Diu

A 16th-century ruin from the Portuguese era, the Panikota Fort was initially a Diu Jail. Formerly known as Fortim-do-Mar, this fort is a historic structure right in the middle of the seas. Hence, reaching this attraction would need a motorboat or a canoe.

Situated opposite the Diu Fort, this white construction offers an island-like view, given its location. Besides, the fort also sites a nearby chapel and a lighthouse. There are efficient ferry services to the fort as well.

History

Also known as Fortim-do-Mar, Pani Kotha Fort is a beautiful stone structure in the sea, built right at the mouth of the creek. It was built during the Muslim domain by Malik Aiyaz and it served as an entry post to control the movement of the Merchant Ships entering Diu for trading. This is also served as the jail during the Portuguese colonial rule.

Architecture

Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, it was built with stones to resemble the structure of a ship to mislead invaders. Pani Kota stands for a fort built in the water. The fort of Pani Kota is controlled by the Portuguese along with the main Diu Fort. Due to its strategic importance, they fortified it by adding further structure in the year 1588 as ordered by the Captain of the Fort, Aires Falcao. A stone inscription is found even today affixed on the wall inside the Fortress about this. The Portuguese also erected a small Chapel in the fort in 1638, dedicated to Our Lady of Victory. This was done in memory of the victory of the Portuguese over the Dutch as per the stone inscription found affixed to the wall of the Chapel. The fort also has barracks for the inmates, a warehouse, a cistern, and a residence for the Commander. Besides these, there is a lighthouse built on the Menagem Bastion.