Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption

The Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption is a rectangular stone structure with four corner bastions and thick defensive walls enclosing a central courtyard. Multiple buildings surround this open space, forming a unified defensive complex that served military operations.

The fortress was built in 1812 under Portuguese command and replaced an earlier Dutch fort called Schoonenborch from 1649. This replacement marked the shift of regional military control from the Netherlands to Portugal.

The fortress was a center of Portuguese military power and continues to shape the city's character through its commanding presence. Visitors can see traces of garrison life in the courtyards where soldiers trained and daily operations unfolded.

The fortress is located along Alberto Nepomuceno Avenue and currently serves as a military command headquarters. Visitors can join guided tours to explore the layout and learn about the buildings and their purposes throughout the complex.

The fortress gave the entire city its name and was the center around which Fortaleza developed as an urban area. Many residents today may not realize their city was named after this military structure that served as the origin point for urban growth.