Fuerte de San Salvador

Fuerte de San Salvador is a rectangular coastal fortress positioned where the Guadalquivir River meets the Atlantic, built from stone with reinforced gun positions. The structure features bastions and loopholes designed to direct fire outward, following the military architecture standards of the 17th century.

King Felipe IV commissioned this fortress in 1627 to defend the port from persistent pirate raids along the Atlantic coast. The limited artillery capacity proved insufficient for sustained defense, leading to its eventual decline as a military installation.

The fortress earned the name Castillo de la Pantisa in the 19th century when an elderly woman in black clothing made it her residence.

The fortress remains are freely accessible from Bonanza beach or via a walking path from the Barriada de Los Marineros neighborhood. Visit during clear weather when access paths are dry and visibility is good for viewing the structure.

The fort contained only four artillery positions, which limited its defensive capabilities and contributed to its early abandonment as a military structure.

Location: Sanlúcar de Barrameda

GPS coordinates: 36.79382,-6.34169

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:25