By Priyanka Roshan | Feb 24, 2025
The Maharashtra government has proposed 12 legendary forts for UNESCO World Heritage recognition under the theme “Maratha Military Landscape of India.”
(Image: Canva)
These forts were more than just military strongholds; they were the cornerstone of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s military strategy, shaping the rise of the Maratha Empire. Each fort tells a story of battles fought, victories won, and an enduring legacy. The list includes:
(Image: Unsplash)
Perched at 3,389 feet, Lohagad served as a strategic base for monitoring enemy movements. Its massive gates and formidable defenses made it nearly impenetrable.
(Image: Unsplash)
Located in Nashik, Salher was the site of one of the largest battles between the Marathas and Mughals in 1672, a turning point in Maratha expansion.
(Image: Wikipedia)
Raigad was Shivaji Maharaj’s capital and the site of his coronation as Chhatrapati in 1674. Even in ruins, it continues to symbolize Maratha pride.
(Image: Maharashtra Tourism)
Pratapgad is forever linked to the 1659 battle where Shivaji Maharaj defeated Afzal Khan. Its towering cliffs and dense forests made it a naturally defensive fortress.
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Shivaji Maharaj lived in Rajgad for over 25 years. Its three massive watchtowers still stand as a testament to Maratha strength and endurance.
(Image: Canva)
Known for its hidden escape routes and massive bastions, Panhala played a key role in Shivaji Maharaj’s daring night escape from Siddi Johar’s siege in 1660.
(Image: Maharashtra Tourism)
Built on an island off the Konkan coast, Sindhudurg showcases Shivaji Maharaj’s naval expertise. Its design made it nearly impossible to attack from the sea.
(Image: Canva)
The birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj in 1630, Shivneri is famous for its seven gates and rock-cut caves, highlighting its early strategic importance.
(Image: Hindu Janajagruti Samiti)
Situated along the Arabian Sea, Suvarnadurg was a major naval base that protected the Maratha coastline from enemy fleets.
(Image: Wikipedia)
A crucial naval stronghold, Vijaydurg had an underwater wall designed to block enemy ships, reinforcing Maratha naval supremacy under Admiral Kanhoji Angre.
(Image: Canva)
This island fort near Mumbai was a key maritime defense post, controlling naval routes and safeguarding trade from Portuguese and British threats.
(Image: Maharashtra Tourism)
Unlike the others, Jinji is located in Tamil Nadu. Shivaji Maharaj captured it in 1677, expanding his empire beyond the Deccan. Its massive stone walls earned it the title “Troy of the East.”
(Image: Gingee Fort)