Fort Santo António of Lifau

The fort stands near the Tono River mouth with a quadrangular layout, four bastions, and walls constructed from earth and stones along the coastline.

Portuguese authorities established the fort in 1702 under António Coelho Guerreiro, making it their first military stronghold in the Timor region.

The fort contained barracks and a church dedicated to Saint Anthony, reflecting the combined military and religious functions of Portuguese colonial settlements.

The location near the coast provided strategic control over maritime trade routes and facilitated the export of sandalwood from the Timor region.

Nine cannons defended the fort until 1769, when Governor António José Teles de Meneses ordered its demolition due to regional conflicts.

Location: Oe-Cusse Ambeno

GPS coordinates: -9.21667,124.30000

Latest update: March 6, 2025 13:23