Whether you’re from Rio de Janeiro or just visiting, you’ve probably heard of Copacabana Fort. The site is very famous, steeped in history, and one of the coolest things to do in the city. But did you know that, on the other side of the Bay, there’s also a historic fortress with a spectacular view that you can visit? Learn more about the Santa Cruz da Barra Fortress, located in Niterói!
One of the oldest in Rio de Janeiro and the city’s main defensive stronghold
The Santa Cruz da Barra Fortress is one of the oldest in Rio de Janeiro. That’s because, according to data from IPHAN, construction began in 1578, and it served as the main defensive stronghold of the city of Rio de Janeiro during the French and Dutch invasions.
The structure is located in the Jurujuba neighborhood of Niterói and is a unique historical site in Brazil. It covers an area of over 7,000 square meters and sits next to the entrance channel to Guanabara Bay. In fact, all vessels arriving at the port of Rio de Janeiro pass through there .
Cannons, dungeons, a chapel… what’s there at the Santa Cruz da Barra Fortress?
The Fortress is currently the headquarters of the Army’s Divisional Artillery and is open to visitors for guided tours. There, visitors get a real immersion in the country’s history, as well as access to a spectacular view of the cities of Niterói and Rio.
The fort houses a collection of 45 cannons from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as a chapel dating back to 1612, featuring an 18th-century statue of Saint Barbara. You can also visit the centuries-old dungeons, courtyards, galleries, and cannon batteries, among other attractions.
The site is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs R$ 10, with half-price tickets available for students and military personnel.
📌Estrada Eurico Gaspar Dutra, s/n – Jurujuba