Fort of Saint Francis, Portuguese colonial fortress in Olinda, Brazil.
Fort of Saint Francis is a fortress in Olinda with rectangular walls, a guardhouse, and two cannons mounted on granite bases. The structure sits near the beach and offers views of the coastline along with insights into colonial military design.
The fortress was built in 1629 by Matias de Albuquerque to defend against Dutch invasions. It changed hands several times during the colonial period, showing its importance for coastal defense.
The fortress displays how the Portuguese designed their military buildings and remains part of Olinda's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can see the solid architecture and defensive structures that were crucial for coastal protection.
The fort is located near the beach and opens daily for visitors under Brazilian Army supervision. It is practical to visit in the morning when it is cooler and fewer people are around.
From 1872 to 1940, the fortress housed a lighthouse with an iron tower that guided ships along the Pernambuco coast. This dual role as a defense structure and navigational aid made it a special site in the region.
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