Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad: A Glimpse into Guam's Past
Explore Guam's Spanish colonial history at Fort Soledad, offering stunning views of Umatac Bay and a glimpse into the island's past.
Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, also known as Fort Soledad, stands as a testament to Guam's strategic importance during the Spanish colonial era. Constructed between 1802 and 1819, it was the last of four fortifications built to protect Umatac Bay, a vital anchorage for galleons traversing the Pacific between Acapulco, Mexico, and the Philippines. Located on a bluff called Chalan Aniti, meaning "Path of the Ancestors," the fort offers commanding views of the village, coastline, and southern mountains. Its elevated position, approximately 224 feet above the bay, allowed for effective monitoring of the harbor and defense against potential threats. The fort was equipped with a barbette for mounting seven cannons, quarters for soldiers, and an arsenal storeroom. While the galleon trade declined after 1815 due to Mexican independence, Fort Soledad remained a landmark. Over time, it suffered damage from weather, treasure hunters, and World War II. However, the government of Guam recognized its historical significance and transformed it into a public park. Restoration efforts in the mid-1990s and community beautification projects have helped preserve this iconic site. Today, visitors can explore the fort's ruins, admire the replica cannons, and soak in the breathtaking views. The sentry post, overlooking Umatac Bay, has become a symbol of Guam's beauty and its connection to the Spanish galleon trade. Fort Soledad offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Guam's past.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort's grounds.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a longer time enjoying the views.
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular photo opportunities.
A brief summary to Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad
- 7MW6+22J, 2, Humåtak, GU
- +8210-4076-7617
Getting There
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Driving
From Ypao Beach Park, drive south on Route 1 (Marine Corps Drive) for approximately 13 miles. Pass through Tamuning and Dededo, then turn left onto Route 4 towards Humåtak. Continue on Route 4 until you reach Fort Soledad. Parking is available near the fort. There are large parking area, it's a 1 min walk to the fort ruins/overlook area.
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Public Transport
From Ypao Beach Park, take a bus heading towards Agat or Humåtak. Check the bus schedule beforehand. The bus fare is around $1.00. Once in Humåtak, you may need to walk approximately 0.5 miles to reach Fort Soledad. Ask locals for directions if unsure.
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Taxi
Taxis are available at major shopping centers and hotels. A taxi ride from Tumon to Fort Soledad will take approximately 1 hour. Expect to pay around $80.00 to $100.00 for a round-trip. The standard flag rate is $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter.
