Forte da Vera Cruz de Itapema, Colonial fortress in Guarujá, Brazil

Forte da Vera Cruz de Itapema stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Santos port channel, with thick stone walls and multiple defensive positions. The fort features gun emplacements and observation areas positioned to command views across the waterway.

Built in the second half of the 16th century, the fort protected the eastern margin of the estuary and monitored shipping traffic. Its role shifted after military operations ceased, serving different administrative purposes.

The name Itapema comes from Tupi-Guarani and means "broken stone", referring to the rock formation at the water's edge where the fort was built. The site was originally called Forte do Pinhão da Vera Cruz in the second half of the 16th century, and its first commander was Captain Francisco Nunes Cubas, nephew of Brás Cubas, founder of Santos.

The fort is accessible through the Vicente de Carvalho district and offers views of ships passing through the port channel. Wearing sturdy shoes is advisable since the path features uneven terrain and rocky ground.

The fort's name comes from Tupi-Guarani: "itapema" means "broken stone", fitting its position on a rock formation at water level. A 1711 royal letter of King João V described it as small and partly demolished, with its powder and arms store covered only in loose tiles over earth.