Chapora Fort was built by the Muslim ruler Adil Shah of the Bahamani kingdom of Bijapur (now in modern day Karnataka) as a border post to protect against invasions by Hindu rulers in the 17th century. It was known as 'Shahapura' during those times.

The Portuguese took control of Goa and re-built the fort in 1617. They lost the bastion of Chapora to the Maratha army under Prince Sambhaji in 1684. The 18th century saw battles between the Portuguese and Marathas for the supremacy of Chapora Fort.

The Marathas withdrew from Chapora Fort in 1717; the Portuguese re-gained control and re-built the fort with underground tunnels for safe passage during battles and emergencies. The Marathas re-captured Chapora from the Portuguese after 22 years in 1739, only to lose again after two years in 1741. The Portuguese controlled Chapora Fort for more than 150 years from 1741 until they deserted it in 1892.

Views from Chapora Fort in Goa: See fabulous views of Vagator Beach and Morjim Beach from the ramparts of 390-year old red laterite bastion of Chapora located 24-km from Panaji. Chapora Fort is a 10-minute drive from Vagator Beach and provides lovely views of Vagator and Anjuna beaches on one side and Morjim beach on the other.