Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra: A Coastal Fortress with a Storied Past

Explore a 16th-century fortress in Niterói with panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and a rich military history.

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Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra

The Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra, a 16th-century fortress in Niterói, Brazil, stands at the entrance of Guanabara Bay. It offers panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and a glimpse into Brazil's colonial military history.

A brief summary to Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra

Estr. Gen. Eurico Gaspar Dutra, Niterói, Jurujuba, State of Rio de Janeiro, 24370-375, BR

Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the views are best on a clear day.
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is some walking involved to explore the fortress.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra via public transport, start by taking a ferry from Praça XV in Rio de Janeiro to Niterói. Ferries depart regularly and the ride takes about 20-25 minutes. Upon arriving in Niterói, take Bus 38 towards Jurujuba and disembark at the stop for Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra. From there, it's a short walk to the fortress. Ferry fare: around R$7. Bus fare: around R$5.
Taxi/Ride-share

For a direct route, take a taxi or ride-sharing service from Niterói. Input 'Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra' as your destination. The drive from the Niterói ferry terminal typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay approximately R$30-R$40 for the ride.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Estr. Gen. Eurico Gaspar Dutra, Jurujuba, Niterói. Public parking is available along the road. Parking rates may vary, but expect to pay around R$5-R$10 per hour. Note that parking can be limited during peak season.

Discover more about Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra

Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra, located in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, is a historical site with origins tracing back to 1555. Initially, the French established a rudimentary fortification with two cannons. After the Portuguese gained control in 1567, they expanded it, naming it Nossa Senhora da Guia before it became Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra in 1612. Strategically positioned at the entrance to Guanabara Bay, the fortress served as a key defense structure for the city and port of Rio de Janeiro during the colonial and imperial periods. Its location provided a vantage point to protect against invaders. The fortress played a role in thwarting attacks, such as the one by Jean-François Duclerc in 1710, but could not prevent René Duguay-Trouin from a similar affront the following year. In the 18th century, the complex was expanded. The last battles fought at the fortress were during the Revolt of the Armada in 1893 and 1894. Today, the site is open to visitors and is also used by the Brazilian Army. It houses a collection of 45 cannons from the 18th and 19th centuries and a chapel dating back to 1612, featuring an 18th-century image of Santa Bárbara. Guided tours are available, and the site attracts an average of 3,500 visitors per month.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro

2.6 km

Discover the historical heart of Rio de Janeiro at Praça da Fundação, where the city's story began amidst stunning natural beauty.

Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João

2.6 km

Step back in time at Rio's Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João, a colonial military landmark with breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay.

Fortaleza de São João

2.8 km

Explore Rio's oldest historical site: Fortaleza de São João in Urca, a fortress with stunning views and rich military heritage.

Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca

3.7 km

Discover Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain and Urca Hill: stunning views, historic trails, and natural beauty in one unforgettable monument.

Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca

Estátua de Frédéric Chopin

3.9 km

A peaceful tribute to Chopin in Urca, Rio de Janeiro, offering serenity and scenic beauty.

Sugar Loaf cable car

4.1 km

Experience breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro from the iconic Sugar Loaf cable car, a must-visit tourist attraction offering stunning panoramas.

Museu Carmen Miranda

4.2 km

Discover the vibrant legacy of Carmen Miranda at this Rio museum, showcasing her dazzling costumes and contributions to Brazilian culture.

Clarice Lispector statue

4.3 km

A tribute to Brazilian literary icon Clarice Lispector, this statue on Leme Beach offers reflection and stunning ocean views.

Estátua de Ary Barroso

4.6 km

Explore the Ary Barroso statue in Copacabana, a stunning tribute to the legendary Brazilian composer amidst breathtaking coastal views.

Praça Nicarágua

4.7 km

Discover Praça Nicarágua in Botafogo: a local favorite with Sugarloaf views, cafes, and a relaxed Carioca vibe.

Largo do Machado, 6 - Catete

4.8 km

Discover Largo do Machado in Rio de Janeiro: A historic square offering culture, cuisine, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial

4.9 km

A striking memorial in Rio de Janeiro honoring the Brazilian soldiers who fought and died during World War II in the Italian Campaign.

Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial

Monumento Memorial às Vítimas do Holocausto

5.0 km

Explore the Holocaust Memorial in Rio de Janeiro: A profound tribute to resilience, remembrance, and the importance of tolerance and understanding.

Monumento Memorial às Vítimas do Holocausto

Brazilian Academy of Letters

5.2 km

Explore Brazil's literary heart at the Academia Brasileira de Letras in Rio de Janeiro, a neoclassical masterpiece dedicated to the Portuguese language.

IHGRJ - Historical and Geographical Institute of Rio de Janeiro

5.3 km

Explore Rio de Janeiro's past at the Historical and Geographical Institute, a treasure trove of local history and culture.

IHGRJ - Historical and Geographical Institute of Rio de Janeiro

Unmissable attractions to see

ADAM BEACH

1.5 km

Discover Niterói's tranquil Adam Beach: golden sands, clear waters, and stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain await!

Praia de Fora

2.6 km

Escape to Praia de Fora: A serene beach in Rio de Janeiro with golden sands, tranquil waters, and stunning natural beauty.

Sugarloaf Mountain

2.6 km

Ascend Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views, thrilling cable car rides, and unforgettable Brazilian vistas.

Inside Beach - St. John Fortress

2.7 km

Explore Rio's Fortress of São João: a historic landmark offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past and stunning views of Guanabara Bay.

Mureta da Urca

3.0 km

Experience Rio's iconic sunset spot: Mureta da Urca, where stunning views meet cold beer and Carioca vibes.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem

3.1 km

Discover Niterói's Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem: A historic seaside church offering art, history, and tranquil coastal views.

Ilha da Boa Viagem

3.1 km

Discover history and breathtaking views at Ilha da Boa Viagem, a serene island escape in Guanabara Bay with a historic chapel and fort.

Trilha do Morro da Urca

3.4 km

Hike through Rio's natural beauty to Morro da Urca for panoramic views and a memorable Sugarloaf Mountain experience.

Praia da Urca

3.4 km

Escape to the tranquil Praia da Urca in Rio de Janeiro for stunning views, calm waters, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the city's hustle.

Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói

3.5 km

Experience art and architecture with panoramic views at Niterói's iconic Museu de Arte Contemporânea, designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

Morro da Urca

3.6 km

Ascend Morro da Urca for panoramic Rio views, a rainforest hike, and a memorable cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain.

Teleférico do Pão de Açúcar

3.7 km

Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro via the iconic Sugarloaf Cable Car, a historic landmark since 1912.

Pista Cláudio Coutinho

3.8 km

Discover a scenic coastal trail in Rio de Janeiro with stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Red Beach

3.8 km

Discover Red Beach in Rio: a tranquil escape with reddish sands, calm waters, and stunning Sugarloaf Mountain views.

Praia de Charitas

3.9 km

Escape to Praia de Charitas in Niterói for calm waters, stunning views of Guanabara Bay, and a relaxing beach experience away from the Rio crowds.

Essential places to dine

Clássico Beach Club - Urca

2.8 km

Experience breathtaking views and exquisite flavors at Clássico Beach Club in Urca - your ultimate beachside retreat in Rio de Janeiro.

Bar e Restaurante Urca

3.0 km

Experience authentic Brazilian flavors at Bar e Restaurante Urca in Rio de Janeiro – where great food meets stunning views.

Terra Brasilis

3.9 km

Discover authentic Brazilian flavors at Terra Brasilis - where great food meets live music in Urca, Rio de Janeiro.

Restaurante Marius Degustare

4.4 km

Experience exquisite seafood and Brazilian flavors with breathtaking views at Restaurante Marius Degustare in Copacabana.

Boteco Belmonte

4.6 km

Discover Boteco Belmonte: A vibrant bar and restaurant in Leme offering delicious Brazilian cuisine and an unforgettable dining experience.

Joaquina

5.1 km

Savor the essence of Brazil at Joaquina – a vibrant restaurant and bar in Copacabana offering authentic dishes and delightful cocktails.

Coco Bambu

5.1 km

Experience the best of Brazilian seafood at Coco Bambu in Botafogo - where fresh flavors meet vibrant atmosphere.

Fogo de Chão

5.1 km

Experience authentic Brazilian barbecue at Fogo de Chão – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

Restaurante The View

5.1 km

Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante The View in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro.

Art à la Cart

5.2 km

Discover Art à la Cart: A delightful restaurant in Rio de Janeiro offering authentic Brazilian cuisine with an artistic twist.

Panka Peruvian Kitchen

5.2 km

Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Panka Peruvian Kitchen in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro – where every dish tells a story.

Razzi Restaurante

5.3 km

Discover the authentic taste of Brazil at Razzi Restaurante in Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Centro district.

Miam Miam

5.3 km

Discover fresh flavors at Miam Miam in Botafogo – where gourmet meets health-conscious dining in Rio de Janeiro.

Signatures | Le Cordon Bleu

5.3 km

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Signatures | Le Cordon Bleu in Botafogo, where culinary artistry meets exceptional service.

Tutto Nhoque Botafogo

5.4 km

Experience the heart of Italy in Rio de Janeiro at Tutto Nhoque Botafogo - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

Discover the vibrant fashion scene at Citycol Botafogo, where trendy clothing meets local Brazilian style in the heart of Rio de Janeiro.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Black Belt Drinks

3.9 km

Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Black Belt Drinks, where stunning views and refreshing drinks meet the spirit of Rio de Janeiro's beach life.

Friends Pub

4.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Friends Pub in Niterói, where delicious pizzas, tapas, and local drinks await you in a lively atmosphere.

Sky Leme | Rooftop & Lounge

4.6 km

Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Sky Leme, the premier rooftop bar in Rio de Janeiro's Leme neighborhood.

Isabel Lounge

5.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Isabel Lounge, where chic ambiance meets stunning views and expertly crafted cocktails.

Coordenadas Bar

5.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Coordenadas Bar in Botafogo, known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere.

Big Ben Pub

5.4 km

Discover the lively Big Ben Pub in Botafogo, a karaoke and dart bar that brings together great drinks, entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere in Rio de Janeiro.

The Maze Rio

5.4 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and cultural richness of The Maze Rio, a unique bar experience in the heart of Catete, Rio de Janeiro.

Bar do Aldo

5.5 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio at Bar do Aldo, a charming bar in Copacabana known for its delicious drinks and friendly ambiance.

Os Imortais Bar

5.5 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copacabana at Os Imortais Bar, where soul food meets lively entertainment, perfect for a memorable evening in Rio.

Macuna Bar

5.5 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Macuna Bar, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.

Bar do Serginho

5.5 km

Discover the essence of Brazilian nightlife at Bar do Serginho, where vibrant culture meets delicious flavors in the heart of Santa Teresa.

The Boua Kitchen Bar

5.6 km

Discover the vibrant flavors of The Boua Kitchen Bar in Botafogo, where gourmet burgers and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable dining experience.

Cafofo Pub

5.6 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife and gourmet hamburgers at Cafofo Pub in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro - a must-visit for food lovers and social butterflies.

Bar Bukowski

5.6 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Bar Bukowski, where rock music and lively ambiance create unforgettable nights.

Explorer Bar

5.8 km

Explore the vibrant cocktail culture of Santa Teresa at Explorer Bar, where creative drinks and lively ambiance come together for an unforgettable night.

Discover the unique nightlife blend of clubbing and relaxation at Termas Up House in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro.

Termas Up House Night Club - Casa Noturna na Lapa

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra: A Coastal Fortress with a Storied Past

A brief summary to Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro

Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João

Fortaleza de São João

Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca

Estátua de Frédéric Chopin

Sugar Loaf cable car

Museu Carmen Miranda

Clarice Lispector statue

Estátua de Ary Barroso

Praça Nicarágua

Largo do Machado, 6 - Catete

Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial

Monumento Memorial às Vítimas do Holocausto

Brazilian Academy of Letters

IHGRJ - Historical and Geographical Institute of Rio de Janeiro

Unmissable attractions to see

ADAM BEACH

Praia de Fora

Sugarloaf Mountain

Inside Beach - St. John Fortress

Mureta da Urca

Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem

Ilha da Boa Viagem

Trilha do Morro da Urca

Praia da Urca

Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói

Morro da Urca

Teleférico do Pão de Açúcar

Pista Cláudio Coutinho

Red Beach

Praia de Charitas

Essential places to dine

Clássico Beach Club - Urca

Bar e Restaurante Urca

Terra Brasilis

Restaurante Marius Degustare

Boteco Belmonte

Joaquina

Coco Bambu

Fogo de Chão

Restaurante The View

Art à la Cart

Panka Peruvian Kitchen

Razzi Restaurante

Miam Miam

Signatures | Le Cordon Bleu

Tutto Nhoque Botafogo

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Bossa Nova Mall

Plaza Shopping

FOM Quiosque

ZARA

Shopping RioSul

A & M Colecionáveis e Antiguidades - Rio De Janeiro

Marioca Moda

Maria Rendeira Arte e decoração

Esplendor Joias Estilo & Luxo

Botafogo Praia Shopping

Casa Riachuelo - Botafogo Praia Shopping

Cristalit II

Rocky Souvenirs

BAGGIO

Citycol Botafogo

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Black Belt Drinks

Friends Pub

Sky Leme | Rooftop & Lounge