Admin
June 27, 2023
The forts in Old San Juan are a testament to the island’s rich history and strategic significance. These imposing structures, built by the Spanish in the 16th and 18th centuries, stand as remarkable examples of military engineering and architectural mastery. Stepping into these forts is like stepping back in time, where visitors can explore their intriguing history, and soak in breathtaking panoramic views.
El Morro, officially known as Castillo San Felipe del Morro, is the fortress that has guarded the entrance to San Juan Bay for centuries. Its strategic location, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, made it an essential line of defense for the Spanish colonial empire.
As you approach El Morro, the first sight that greets you are the sentry boxes, or “garitas”, perched along the fort’s walls. These distinctive structures have become a symbol of Puerto Rico’s cultural identity. As you explore El Morro you will come across the quaint chapel the soldiers used, living quarters, and the old cannons facing out to sea!
One of the main attractions of El Morro is the Lighthouse. Located at the western tip this lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a significant historical landmark, having guided ships safely into the harbor for over a century.
Speaking of views from El Morro you can get an amazing look at the iconic colorful buildings of La Perla as well as Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi!
Castillo San Cristobal, the largest fort built by the Spanish in the Americas, was constructed to protect San Juan from land-based attacks. Its formidable walls and design showcase the Spanish’s commitment to protecting their territories.
Castillo San Cristobal is known for its intricate network of walls and tunnels. These tunnels allowed the Spanish to move around the fort unseen; they were also part of the fort’s “defense system”. During a siege, they could be blown up with gunpowder to keep enemies away. If you want to learn more about how the tunnels were used they offer a Tunnel Tour free of charge with your entry fee.
Like El Morro, Castillo San Cristobal features its own garitas. These sentry boxes dot the fortress walls, offering a panoramic vantage point to keep a watchful eye on any approaching enemy. You can also walk along the expansive ramparts to admire the sweeping views of the city, harbor, and surrounding landscapes.
A fascinating highlight within Castillo San Cristobal is the Devil’s Garita, or “Garita del Diablo“. The legend starts from a story where a soldier went missing while on duty and all that was left was his uniform and weapon, leading the others to believe he was taken by the devil. This site is currently closed to the general public but you can still get a nice view of it from the rest of the fort.
If you want to learn more about the legends surrounding this garita read here!
The forts of Old San Juan not only offer a glimpse into the past but also provide stunning views of the ocean, city, and beyond. Exploring the rich history, intricate architecture, and awe-inspiring views of El Morro and Castillo San Cristobal will undoubtedly leave you with an appreciation for Puerto Rico’s heritage.
For more information on the forts and how best to explore them check out the San Juan National Park Service and for upcoming events at the forts click here!
