Fort Pontael, Military fortification in Cabo de Santo Agostinho, Brazil
Fort Pontael is a stone fortress in Cabo de Santo Agostinho with a heptagonal layout positioned about 29 meters above sea level. The site displays remains of defensive structures, powder magazines, and quarters that reflect its military purpose.
The fort was built to protect a vital anchorage during the Dutch invasion of Brazil in the 17th century. It changed hands between Portuguese and Dutch forces several times between 1630 and 1654.
The fort remains mark the location where Spanish navigator Vicente Yanez Pinzon first spotted Brazilian territory on January 26, 1500.
Access is through the village of Nazare via the PE-28 highway. The grounds are relatively open, making it easy to explore the ruins from different vantage points.
The Dutch renamed it Fort van der Dussen during their occupation. A small garrison of around 196 men in two companies kept watch over the Suape and Ipojuca rivers from this position.
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