India

Fort Anjengo

Also known as fort d’Anchuthengu, Anjengo fort is situated in the city of Anchuthengu, at around 12km from Varkala, on the road to Kadakkavur, in the district of Thiruvananthapuram. The fort is also believed to be a former colonial settlement. Discover this great monument that has marked the history of India and British settlement during the colonial era.

History

Anjengo Fort has marked the history of India since it’s the first commercial set-up of East India Company. In 1684, the queen of Attingal gave permission to the British to erect a firm in Anchuthengu. They were also allowed to build a fort in 1690. Soon after, in 1695, Anjengo fort was completed. The Anchuthengu Company was therefore set up to promote trade with several countries. A warehouse was set up to conserve the military equipment. A rebellion against the British took place in 1697. The factory was attacked, but this did not affect the political agreement between the two countries. On the other hand, the rebellion Attingal of 1721 wreaked havocs because of the unpleasant approaches of British. Britishers wanted to introduce a new law in Indian society. The leaders of that period asked British to redeem themselves by offering a beautiful gift to the queen of Attingal. But the present did not convince the natives who killed and attacked some British merchants. For this, the Anjengo fort was besieged and the revolt ceased only when the British forces reached Anchuthengu. The rebellion thus constituted the first collective movement of the Indians against the British forces. In addition, the fort played an important role during the war waged by King Mysore and Hyder Ali in the 18th century, against British. In 1802, the first largest ship of India was built in Anjengo. Visit fort Anjengo The literal translation of Anchuthengu is « five coconut trees ». As the name indicates, coconut trees occupy a major part of the city. Some historians are of opinion that the name is a derivative of Anjingal, the original name in Tamil. British have misunderstood it and adopted it as “Anjengo”.

Architecture of the fort

Compared to other forts in Kerala, Anjengo fort was different in architect compared to existing fort across the country. It appears more like a closed fortress with high-pitched walls. The fort possesses some security check-points, as well as entries from east and west. Anjengo fort is situated at about 36 km to the north of Thiruvananthpuram, near Varkala beach, on the coast. It is a beautiful destination for adventure lovers. Registered as a national heritage, the fort once served as a landmark for British ships. It is said that there is a cemetery inside the fort, the oldest of which dates from 1704. The fort is distinguished by its square shape, comprising four bastions, each equipped with eight cannons. The walls between the bastions were endowed with seven or eight canons. In addition, there is a battery of 20 canons facing the sea. It is said that the fort could once contain a garrison of 400 Europeans, with 70 to 80 topasses. Few meters from the site is a lighthouse open to tourists. The building offers a magnificent view of the great estuary and the avenue of coconut trees of Anjengo. Through a boat ride, visitors can visit the Shiva Temple situated on the Golden Island. The most important feature of Anjengo is its beautiful beach. Most of the visitors of Anjengo Fort love to picnic there and enjoy the charming and historic places.

How to get there ?

To reach Anjengo Fort, you must first reach Varkala Station about 12 km, nearest station to the city of Anchuthengu, situated about 37 km from Thiruvananthapuram. You can then take a taxi from Varkala to the fort.

Hours and Time

The fort is open every day from 8:00 to 18:00 for visitors Entry is free.