Constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th century, Fort St. Anthony of Simar served as a vital defensive outpost. Its strategic location on a promontory provided excellent vantage points for monitoring maritime activity and protecting Diu's harbor. The fort played a significant role in the numerous conflicts between the Portuguese, the Sultans of Gujarat, and other regional powers vying for control of the lucrative trade routes. Over the centuries, it witnessed sieges, battles, and periods of relative peace. After India's independence, Diu, including the fort, remained under Portuguese control until 1961 when it was integrated into India. Today, the fort stands as a testament to Diu's complex and layered history.