Ponta de Montserrat, Cape and heritage site in Monte Serrat district, Brazil
Ponta de Montserrat is a cape extending into the Bay of All Saints, marked by a red and white striped lighthouse. The lighthouse has guided maritime traffic since 1839, and a church also stands on the site.
Portuguese colonizers built Fort Santo Alberto here in 1612 to protect Salvador's northern coast from Dutch attacks. Later, the site became an important navigation landmark for ships entering the bay.
The church displays colonial baroque architecture and hosts religious services that blend Catholic traditions with local Brazilian customs. Visitors can observe spiritual practices that reflect the region's diverse faith heritage.
The site is accessible daily and offers views of the bay and a nearby beach. Wear comfortable shoes since the path to the lighthouse and church crosses uneven ground.
Each March, celebrations honoring the sea goddess Iemanja take place here, with people bringing offerings to the water. This tradition connects African spirituality with local coastal customs.
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