Vattakkottai Fort
Vattakottai Fort's History:
Vattakottai, a beach fort near Kanyakumari, was erected in the 18th century. It was constructed as part of the Travancore Kingdom's coastal defense project and is an architectural masterpiece. Historians think the Vattakottai Fort's history dates back to the Pandyas, based on the fish symbols engraved on its walls. It is one of Kanyakumari's most popular attractions, with hundreds of people visiting each day.
A Brief Overview of Vattakottai Fort's History:
Raja Marthanda Varma built the Vattaikottai fort to defend the Travancore province against seaborne attackers. Though the fort began with basic construction, Captain Eustachius De Lannoy oversaw the substantial refurbishment with granite stones.
De Lannoy was French, but fought alongside the Dutch invaders. He submitted to the Raja after losing the Battle of Colachel in 1741. The Raja, impressed with his abilities and intelligence, appointed him commander-in-chief. De Lannoy concentrated on upgrading the kingdom's numerous fortifications, especially the Vattakottai Fort. This magnificent fort still stands as a testament to his abilities and contributions to India's maritime history.
A rich history:
The history of Vattaikottai Fort will undoubtedly amaze everyone. Some believe the fort was controlled by the Pandyas, based on the fish insignia found on the walls around it. This could be accurate because the Pandyas once dominated Kanyakumari.
Construction:
The Vattaikottai fort was originally built with bricks, but was later refurbished and rebuilt with granite stones at the request of De Lannoy. The fort's exterior walls contain apertures where canons can be positioned to fight invaders. Interestingly, a portion of this fort extends into the water, providing the soldiers with a 360-degree view of both the sea and the land, thereby protecting the region against invasion. Historians are nevertheless fascinated by the projected fortification.
The scenic viewpoint:
The Vattaikottai fort is located on the Arabian Sea shore and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The fort's grounds are lush with trees and plants, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Because the fort is located near the Western Ghat, the flora enhances the beauty of the area. When you visit Vattakottai Fort, you will notice a little tiered tank that still contains water.
