Fort of Cão

Forte do Cão is a fortification at the mouth of the Âncora River with four unequal bastions. The side facing the ocean curves outward, while the side facing inland curves inward and contains a circular arched entrance gate.

The fort was built between 1699 and 1702 as part of a network of four fortifications along the Atlantic coast. This system of defenses was established to monitor and protect the coastline between Caminha and Viana do Castelo.

The fort displays Portuguese military architecture from the late 17th century with its distinctive star-shaped design. Visitors can observe how the layout of bastions and thick walls reflect the defensive strategies of that era.

The fort sits at the mouth of the Âncora River and can be reached by walking along Avenida Forte do Cão. The interior is closed to visitors, but the exterior structure is visible from the public approach path.

The core of the fort holds service quarters arranged in a corridor around the central plaza. The thick walls were deliberately positioned to keep watch over maritime traffic and coastal activities in the area.