San Pedro de la Roca

The fortress of San Pedro de la Roca is a famous historical site located in the city of Santiago de Cuba. This building was built in the 12th century to defend the city bay. If we translate the name of the fortress literally, we get "The Castle of the Three Magi on the hill." San Pedro de la Roca is now one of the protected historical and important UNESCO sites.

The fortress project was created back in 1637 by order of the city government under the command of Giovanni Battista Antonelli, who was a military engineer. The main functions assigned to the fortress of San Pedro de la Roca were to protect the city from pirate pogroms.

The construction of the fortress lasted for 42 years. The construction took place on a steep slope that juts out into the harbor. Nowadays, many tourists visit this historical site. An excursion through the territory of San Pedro de la Roca provides an opportunity not only to see and appreciate the ancient architecture, but also to feel the historical spirit that permeates its walls.

The fortress has many terraces, the strongest defensive walls, as well as bastions.

There was a period when some buildings of the fortress served as prisons where political prisoners were held. But, the main purpose was also military. San Pedro de la Roca has been attacked more than once. The last recorded raid on the fortress was in 1898, when there was a war between Spain and America.

Now the walls of the fortress of San Pedro de la Roca are in excellent condition, although the weapons themselves are rusty. This fortress is the best preserved among similar objects in Cuba. If you are planning a trip to Liberty Island, then be sure to visit this significant defensive structure, from the territory of which incredibly beautiful seascapes open.