Portuguese fort in Diu, Gujarat, India. (Photo by: IndiaPictures/UIG via Getty Images)

UIG via Getty Images

Diu Fort

Top choice in Diu


Built in 1535, with additions made in 1541, this massive, well-preserved Portuguese fort with its double moat (one tidal) was one of the most important Portuguese forts in Asia. Today sea erosion and neglect are leading to a slow collapse. Cannonballs litter the place, and the ramparts have a superb array of cannons. The lighthouse is Diu’s highest point, with a beam that reaches 32km. There are a couple of small chapels, one holding engraved tombstone fragments.

Part of the fort also serves as the island’s jail.


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1. St Paul’s Church

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2. Diu Museum

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3. Church of St Francis of Assisi

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5. Nagar Sheth Haveli

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6. Jallandhar Beach

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7. Zampa Gateway

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