Bassein

Built in 1534, it once worked as a centre of operation till 1739. The Portuguese decided to keep Bassein as the main base. Bassein is one of the well-known sea forts which remained under Portuguese since 16th century. It is located on Vasai Road which still remains one of the oldest sights found in suburban Mumbai inside Thane district. Though originally built under Sultan of Gujarat, the fort served as a main establishment for Portuguese who settled here.

Bassein Fort is one of the historical sights which remained under the Portuguese rule until it was captured by the Marathas near 18th CE. under Chimaji Appa. The remnant of this fort is surrounded with a number of watch towers which were used to observe movements. Some of the well-preserved facades and a number of arches have decorated stone curvatures that have undergone severe erosion. Some of them still depict sharp scratches by chisel. There are three chapels inside Bassein which are decorated with arches and facades depicting 17 CE. old Portuguese churches. The last church has a barrel-vaulted ceiling which is still maintained.