St. Thomas Fort, also known as Thangassery Fort, is a historic coastal fort in Thangassery, Kollam district, Kerala. It was built by the Portuguese in 1518 and served as an important military and trading post to protect their interests in the spice trade. The strategically favourable location of the fort on the Arabian Sea enabled the Portuguese to monitor and control important sea routes.
In 1658, the Dutch East India Company took possession of the fort from the Portuguese and strengthened its defenses to reinforce its position on the Malabar Coast. Later, in the late 18th century, the fort came under British control, reflecting the change in ownership. Although its military importance was reduced by time, the fort remained as a symbol of colonial supremacy and maritime ambition.
Today, only the ruins of the original structure remain, including parts of the bastions, the walls and the entrance gate. Built of sandstone and lime mortar, the fort displays classic Portuguese military architecture with thick ramparts, arched gates and sea-facing bastions used for coastal defense. The site, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and draws history lovers, photographers and travellers. The fort is a striking mix of history, architecture and natural beauty making it one of the top places to visit in Kerala.
• Explore the St Thomas Fort, a 16th-century marvel built by the Portuguese in 1518, showcasing colonial military architecture.
• Dwell into the rich history of the fort that changed ownership between the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, reflecting the strategic importance of this coastal fort.
• Wander through the ruins of the fort that whisper stories of spice trade, naval battles, and global maritime ambitions that once echoed through the fort’s walls.
By road- The St Thomas Fort is located around 7 km from the Kollam city center and can be reached in approximately 18 minutes via Bharanikavu - Kollam Road.
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Know before you go to St Thomas Fort:
St. Thomas Fort was built in 1518 by the Portuguese to protect their valuable spice trade along the Malabar Coast. Visitors can wander through the narrow passages while having a glimpse at the rich history of the fort. It also offers stunning views of the Arabian sea making it a perfect location for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
St. Thomas Fort is characterised by its robust Portuguese military architecture with sandstone walls, sea-facing bastions and arched gates for defense. The strategic structure includes thick ramparts and narrow passages for surveillance. The fortifications were later strengthened by Dutch reinforcements as they sought to secure dominance in this region and protect the trade routes. The fort’s layout reflects its importance for colonial power struggles and defense at sea.
St. Thomas Fort is located in the Kollam district in the Indian state of Kerala. It is located in the coastal town of Thangassery, just 7 km from the town of Kollam and is also known as Thangassery Fort.
The St. Thomas Fort in Thangassery , Kollam, was built by the Portuguese in 1518 to protect their spice trade. It later fell into the hands of the Dutch in 1658 and then to the British in the 18th century. Although the fort is now partly in ruins, it is a reminder of Kerala’s colonial past and its key role in maritime trade.