PANJIM: Commemorating the 60th Goa Liberation year, the State government is all set to restore the Alorna Fort, after a more than a century of neglect.
Alorna Fort also known as Halarn fort is one of the oldest forts in Goa, situated on the banks of Chapora River. It was constructed by the Bhonsles of Sawantwadi in the 17th century to defend against the Maratha attacks.
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The government has invited bids to restore the historic 17th century fort, at an estimated cost of Rs 27.38 lakhs. The restoration will be done within a period of three months, from the date of work order issued.
When restored, the fort, which has one of the most scenic views of the Chapora river bank, ought to draw visitor’s attention once again.
A senior official said the fort was built before the Portuguese occupation of these parts. The fort was built by the Bhonsles to protect their territories of Pernem, Bicholim and Maneri and river passage from the Portuguese.
However, the Bhonsles lost the fort to the Portuguese. There is no other known documentation on the fort, the officer said.
Meanwhile, the Goa State Museum will host Museum Week at its premises at the Old Secretariat, Panjim from February 19 to 26.
