Fort of São João Baptista Berlengas, Military fort on Berlenga Grande island, Portugal
Fort of São João Baptista Berlengas is a military fortification on Berlenga Grande island off Portugal. The structure spreads across six irregular sides with stone walls and cannons positioned on elevated terrain facing the Atlantic Ocean.
The fort was founded in 1502 under King Manuel I and reused materials from a former monastery. A major reconstruction took place in 1651 under King John IV to strengthen its defensive capabilities.
The fort displays Portuguese defensive design that adapts to the island's natural shape and uses local stone throughout. You can observe how the structure blends with its rocky surroundings.
Visitors reach the fort by boat from Peniche harbor, then climb a series of stone steps or take an additional boat transfer. The island is windy and exposed, so come prepared for changing weather conditions.
The fort preserves eleven original cannon positions connected by a tunnel system carved into the island rock. These underground passages reveal advanced engineering from early fortress design.
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