Fortress of Santo Amaro da Barra Grande, Military fortress in Guarujá, Brazil
The Fortress of Santo Amaro da Barra Grande is a military installation on the southeast side of Santo Amaro Island in Guarujá that controls the shipping channel to Santos port. The complex includes fortification walls, barracks, and observation points strategically positioned for coastal defense operations.
Construction began in 1584 under Spanish rule following English corsair Edward Fenton's attack on Santos, using Italian architect Giovanni Antonelli's design. The fortification was built to prevent future maritime attacks on the region's port.
The fortress reflects Portuguese colonial military design through its stone walls and bastions that shaped the landscape. Walking through it reveals how coastal defense was integrated into daily life and territorial control during that era.
Visitors can explore the fortification walls, barracks, and observation points to learn about colonial defense systems. The best time to visit is during clear weather, as paths and structures are mostly exposed to the elements.
The fortress served as a political prison in the 19th century and exchanged fire with Brazilian cruisers during the 1885 Armada Revolt. This role reveals how the site's purpose shifted beyond its original coastal defense function.
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