Baluarte de Santiago, Campeche

The Baluarte de Santiago is a fortification in Campeche, Mexico that served as one of eight bastions protecting the city. Today it houses a botanical garden featuring native regional plants and regional species.

This bastion was completed in 1704 as the final one of eight structures built to defend against pirate raids. The current building is a 1950s reconstruction that preserved only the original entrance gate.

The name references Saint James, patron of Spanish conquests, showing how colonial traditions shaped Mexican military construction. This connection remains visible in how locals relate to the structure.

The site is straightforward to explore thanks to the botanical garden displaying medicinal and food plants from the area. Access is at ground level, making a visit comfortable for everyone.

Only the original entrance gate survives from the 1700s, with the rest being a modern reconstruction using different architectural styles. This blend of authentic and new elements gives the place its unusual character today.

Location: San Francisco de Campeche

GPS coordinates: 19.84790,-90.53500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:41