Bekal Fort: A Historical and Architectural Marvel
History and Construction
Bekal Fort, built by Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi in 1650 AD, is a medieval fort located in Bekal, Kerala. It is the largest fort in the state, covering an area of 40 acres (160,000 m²). The fort’s strategic location and impressive design make it a notable historical landmark.
Unique Location and Design
The fort seems to rise dramatically from the sea, with nearly three-quarters of its perimeter touching the water. Unlike many forts, Bekal was not used as an administrative center and lacks the palaces or mansions commonly found in other forts.
Notable Features
Key features of Bekal Fort include a water tank, a magazine, and a staircase leading to an observation tower constructed by Tipu Sultan. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and nearby towns such as Kanhangad, Pallikkara, Bekal, Mavval, Kottikkulam, and Uduma.
Defensive Architecture
Bekal Fort’s design reflects its military purpose, with a zigzag entrance and surrounding trenches. The strategically placed holes in the outer walls served a defensive function: upper holes targeted distant enemies, lower holes aimed at closer foes, and the lowest holes were used for attacking enemies nearest to the fort.
Comparison with Other Forts
Bekal Fort’s robust construction is similar to that of other forts built by the Dutch, such as Thalassery Fort and St. Angelo Fort at Kannur. These forts share a similar architectural style, reflecting the influence of the Dutch on fortifications in the region.
