St. Angelo Fort, Kannur

St. Angelo Fort, also known as Kannur Fort, is a 16th century sea facing fort located in Kannur, Kerala. Built by the Portuguese in 1505 and later strengthened by the Dutch and British, the fort stands as a powerful reminder of colonial influence on the Malabar Coast. Its strategic location along the Arabian Sea offers panoramic views and deep historical significance.

St. Angelo Fort was built in 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India. Over the centuries, it witnessed fierce battles and changed hands between the Dutch, who modified the fort's design, and later the British who used it as a garrison. The laterite structure still houses bastions, ramparts, secret passages, and cannons, all of which reflect its colonial military past.

The fort provides sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and the nearby Mappila Bay fishing harbor. Walkways around the ramparts allow visitors to enjoy both history and nature. Inside the fort, visitors can see well-preserved bastions, old Portuguese-era buildings, and a chapel. It is now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and serves as a peaceful tourist and heritage site in Kannur.

A visit to St. Angelo Fort offers a unique opportunity to explore Kerala’s colonial heritage, architectural evolution, and coastal scenery. The site is also popular for photography, school tours, and cultural events.

🚗 How to Reach

By Road: St. Angelo Fort is about 3 km from Kannur town and easily accessible by local buses and taxis.

By Train: Kannur Railway Station is around 2.5 km away and well connected to major cities in Kerala and beyond.

By Air: Kannur International Airport (CNN) is the nearest airport, located approximately 27 km from the fort.

🎟️ Entry & Visiting Info

Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open all days)
Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indian citizens, ₹300 for foreign nationals
Photography: Allowed; drone use may require special permission

🏛️ Architectural & Historical Highlights

→ Bastions & Ramparts: Offering scenic views and built for coastal defense.

→ Dutch & British Modifications: Reflected in the design of the walls and buildings.

→ Cannons & Barracks: Preserved colonial military structures inside the fort.

→ Secret Tunnels: Said to connect the fort to the sea, though now inaccessible.

📌 Nearby Attractions

→ Mappila Bay: A picturesque fishing harbor adjacent to the fort.

→ Payyambalam Beach: A popular beach close to the town (~2 km away).

→ Arakkal Museum: Showcasing the heritage of Kerala's only Muslim royal family (~2 km away).