Fort San Diego, Star fort in Acapulco, Mexico.
Fort San Diego is a five-sided fortress on a hill with five strong bastions and thick stone walls that overlook Acapulco Bay. The structure spreads across several levels with fifteen exhibition halls inside.
Spanish authorities built the fortress in 1617 to protect ships traveling between Manila and Acapulco from pirate attacks. It served as a crucial point for controlling one of the most important trade routes of that era.
The fort houses the Acapulco Historical Museum, which focuses on the Mezcala culture and the region's maritime trade. Visitors can see artifacts and displays that tell the story of the city's past and its sea connections.
The fort is open Tuesday through Sunday and offers free admission on Sundays. The best way to explore is to walk up the bastions slowly and pause at each level to view the different exhibitions.
Dutch engineer Adrian Boot designed the fortress using advanced European military techniques from the 1600s. This blend of European military architecture adapted to the local setting makes it architecturally noteworthy.
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