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Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption: Fortaleza's Colonial Heart

Explore Fortaleza's colonial history at the Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption, a landmark offering rich history and stunning coastal views.

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The Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption is a historic military structure in Fortaleza, Brazil, dating back to the 17th century. Built initially by the Dutch and later reclaimed by the Portuguese, it played a crucial role in the region's defense. Today, it stands as a well-preserved landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past and stunning views of the city and coastline.

A brief summary to Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption

  • Av. Alberto Nepomuceno, s/n, Fortaleza, Center of Fortaleza, Ceará, 60055-000, BR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Bring your camera for stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary throughout the week.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the grounds involves a fair amount of walking.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the city center, start at Praça do Ferreira. Head south on Rua João Moreira until you reach Avenida Alberto Nepomuceno. Turn left and walk for about 10 minutes. The fortress will be on your right, just before the waterfront. No cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Find the nearest bus stop and take a bus that heads towards the city center. Look for buses that have 'Centro' or 'Avenida Alberto Nepomuceno' in their route. Get off at the stop closest to Praça do Ferreira. From there, walk south along Rua João Moreira, turn left onto Avenida Alberto Nepomuceno, and walk for about 10 minutes until you reach the fortress on your right. The bus fare is approximately R$3.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Use a taxi or a ride-sharing app. Enter 'Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption' or the address 'Av. Alberto Nepomuceno, s/n - Centro, Fortaleza - CE, 60055-000' in the app. The driver will take you directly to the fortress. A taxi ride from the city center typically costs around R$32. A ride-sharing service may cost around R$20.

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Discover more about Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption

The Fortress of Our Lady of the Assumption, or *Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção*, is a historical landmark that stands as a testament to Fortaleza's colonial past. Constructed in the 17th century, the fortress has witnessed the turbulent conflicts between European powers vying for control of the region. Originally built by the Dutch in 1649 and named Schoonenborch Fort, the structure was reclaimed by the Portuguese in 1654 and renamed Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção. This marked the beginning of Fortaleza's evolution from a military stronghold to a burgeoning city. The fortress's strategic importance led to several modifications and expansions over the centuries. The current layout, a near-perfect square with bulwarks at each vertex, was rebuilt in 1812. Today, the fortress serves as the headquarters of the 10th Military Region of the Brazilian Army, highlighting its enduring strategic importance. It also houses the Museum and Pantheon of General Sampaio, the patron of the Infantry Arm, and features a statue of Martim Soares Moreno. Visitors can explore the fort's rich history through guided tours, which provide detailed insights into its architectural features and historical significance. The site also contains the cell where Bárbara de Alencar, a notable figure in Brazilian history, was imprisoned.

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