San Juan National Historic Site, National Historic Site and World Heritage Site in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan National Historic Site is a complex of massive stone fortresses and thick defensive walls in the northern part of Old San Juan. The buildings and military structures spread across several blocks and form a large fortification system.
Spanish colonists began building the fortifications in the 16th century to protect the harbor from pirates and competing European navies. Construction of the complex continued through many generations as it was expanded and improved over time.
The fortifications show Spanish military architecture built over many centuries, and they still shape how Old San Juan looks today. Walking through the structures, you can see how different building styles and techniques were used by builders across different generations.
You can explore the fortresses on your own or join guided tours offered daily. Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths are paved and there are many stairs and transitions between different areas.
The site preserves around three-quarters of San Juan's original city walls, making it a rare example of a complete fortified urban core. This places it among only three remaining walled cities in North America that retain such substantial portions of their original defenses.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
395 m
La Fortaleza
5.9 km
Cathedral of San Juan Bautista
529 m
San José Church
378 m
Casa Blanca
309 m
Tapia Theater
1.1 km
Paseo del Morro
143 m
Casa de España
1.5 km
Plaza del Quinto Centenario
314 m
Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico
1.1 km
La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site
587 m
El Cañuelo
1.5 km
Ballajá Barracks
208 m
El Morro or Port San Juan Light
336 m
San Juan City Hall
664 m
Statue of Juan Ponce de León
410 m
Church of Saint Francis of Assisi
930 m
Carnegie Library
1.3 km
Church of St. Anne
825 m
Museo Casa Blanca
328 m
Museo de las Américas
214 m
Castillo San Cristóbal
1.2 km
Museo de San Juan
457 m
Statue of Christopher Columbus
1.1 km
La Rogativa
396 m
Polvorín de Santa Elena (San Juan)
94 m
Museo del Mar
991 m
Román Baldorioty de Castro Graded and Technical School (San Juan)
870 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes