Baluarte de Santiago

The Baluarte de Santiago is a military bastion in Veracruz featuring thick defensive walls, watchtowers, and strategic positions designed to protect against maritime attacks. The structure retains the original layout of a colonial fortress with its reinforced bastions and interior courtyards.

Built in 1635 as part of a defensive system, this fortification protected the port of Veracruz from pirates and privateers throughout the colonial period. It later played a key role during conflicts when foreign forces threatened the city.

The museum inside displays a collection of 42 Mixtec gold pieces known as the Fisherman's Jewels, discovered in a colonial shipwreck off the coast. These artifacts tell stories about the wealth and trade that passed through this harbor.

The bastion sits between Gomez Farías and 16 de September streets and welcomes visitors on most days of the week. Entry is free, and the interior is accessible on foot with easy navigation through the main courtyards.

The walls along Avenida Gómez Farías still bear bullet marks from armed conflicts in early Mexican history. These scars stand as silent reminders of the city's turbulent past.