Vellore Fort | Archaeological Survey of India

Vellore Fort is where the first rebellion against the British started. But due to the scale of the arrogance of 1857, it is considered to be the first revolt. Among the forts in Tamil Nadu, Vellore is considered to be one of the most invincible. Spread over 135 acres, this fort is surrounded by a deep and wide moat. The waters of this moat were home to about 10,000 crocodiles who would deal with the raiders if they dare to cross it. Situated in the heart of the city, this fort is a fine example of military architecture too. It is studded with double fortifications. Once the seat of the Aravidu dynasty of the Vijayanagar empire, the 16th century Vellore Fort remains the abode of all historical tales and facts. According to history, Vellore fort was built by the Vijayanagar rulers.

It was later occupied by many kings and their dynasties like Adil Shah, the nawab of Bijapur, Marathas and then Daulat Khan of Delhi. Finally the British took over the fort in the 19th century and kept it under their control. The most famous prisoners of the fort included Tipu Sultan’s family and the last king of Sri Lanka – Vikrama Rajasinha. A pearl tomb has been constructed inside the fort in memory of that king. The fort houses a temple, a mosque and a church which is the renowned Vellore Christian hospital with many other commercial buildings. The Jalakandeswarar temple situated inside the fort is noted for its sculptures. The mosque inside the fort was constructed during the last Arcot Nawab period. And the church was constructed during the early British period. There is also a Government museum inside this fort that showcases objects of historic value, recovered from the region. This fort is well maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.