St. Angelo Fort (Kannur Fort)

About this place

St Angelo Fort, also known as Kannur Fort, is a historic coastal fortification in Kannur and one of the most important surviving monuments associated with European colonial activity on the Malabar Coast. The fort was constructed in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, on a headland overlooking the Arabian Sea and the natural harbour of Mappila Bay. Its strategic position gave the Portuguese an important military base for protecting their interests and strengthening their presence in the region. The fort changed hands several times during the colonial period. The Dutch captured it from the Portuguese in 1663 and modified the fortifications before eventually selling it to the Ali Raja of the Arakkal dynasty. The British took control in 1790 and developed the fort as a military base, adding to its long and layered history. Today, St Angelo Fort is protected as a centrally protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India. The fort has a distinctive triangular plan and is constructed mainly from laterite and surkhi, a brick-dust-based material. Massive walls, a moat and large bastions demonstrate its defensive character, while surviving features such as cannons, ammunition stores, an underground jail, stables, a chapel and other military structures provide glimpses into its changing functions over the centuries. A sea wall extending from the fort separates the open sea from the inland waters and forms an important part of the historic coastal setting. The fort’s elevated position is one of its most appealing features. From the ramparts, visitors can look across Mappila Bay, a natural fishing harbour, towards the Arabian Sea and Dharmadam Island. The surrounding landscape combines historic fortifications with fishing activity, coastal waters and open sea views, giving the monument a distinctive maritime character. The fort also illustrates how European military architecture was adapted to the geographical and political conditions of the Malabar coast. Its successive Portuguese, Dutch, Arakkal and British associations make it an important site for understanding the region’s complex colonial history, while its surviving structures offer valuable evidence of historic military planning. Today, St Angelo Fort provides an opportunity to explore Kannur’s maritime past while enjoying views of one of the district’s most characteristic coastal landscapes. Its combination of architecture, military history, colonial heritage and Mappila Bay views makes it a significant stop for travellers interested in Kerala’s history and coastal heritage.

🚆 Railway: Kannur Railway Station — approximately 3 km from the fort.

✈️ Airport: Kannur International Airport — approximately 28–35 km, depending on the route.

🚌 Bus: The fort is accessible from Kannur city by local bus and road transport; Kannur KSRTC Central Bus Terminal is approximately 3 km away.

🏨 Stay: Hotels, homestays and resorts are available in Kannur city and the surrounding coastal areas.

✅ Notes: St Angelo Fort is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. Kerala Tourism currently lists visiting hours as 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. The fort has uneven historic surfaces, ramparts and open edges, so visitors should remain within accessible areas and follow site instructions.