There is so Much History on Isla Margarita!

During your visit to Caracola Beach and Spa Resort, travel back in history to the colonial days when the Spaniards of Isla Margarita found refuge in fortresses and forts that were used to protect its ports from pirates and other threats to the island.

Isla Margarita has a few prominent forts and fortresses that still remain today which visitors of the island can visit.

Castillo de Santa Rosa: This fort was built between 1586 and 1595, and is located atop La Caranta hill in Pampatar. This fort was originally built to shut off access to Pampatar’s shore; however, that tasks could never be achieved because it was destroyed by Dutch pirates during an attack in 1626.

This fort is also famous for having served as a dungeon to heroin Luisa Arismendi Cáceres, for approximately three months. It has since been declared historic national monument on October 26, 1965. Access to the castle is very easy with a paved road, signs, and parking. It also offers a spectacular view of the Valley of Santa Lucia and is open to visitors all week long.

Castillo de San Carlos: This fort was built between 1664 and 1684 and was built at the entrance of the Palma de Mallorca port that it was built to defend. This was the most important fort on the island because it was built to protect the bay of Pampatar. It is currently in the naval base and home to the city’s Historical Military Museum.

Fortin Espana: This fort, which is located atop a hill on the outskirts of Santa Ana del Norte, is only a small guard outpost; however, it proved to be of great importance to protect the main road between Juan Griego and La Asuncion. This fort was one of the main sites where the struggle for independence took place and the state of Nueva Esparta was proclaimed. This fort had tunnels leading to the church of Santa Anna, the Castle of Santa Rosa and San Carlos de Borromeo Castle, which have since closed.

Fortin de la Galera: This fort, which was built in 1811 by the Margarita Provincial Joint, was given the name La Libertad (freedom) after a battle for independence was held around its walls on August 8, 1817. This building is now the perfect place to admire colorful sunsets over Caribbean waters. The view from here extends over the Island’s entire west side, where the tranquil waters of La Galera bay and Juan Griego bay meet.

Be sure to visit one, or all, of these historical forts on Isla Margarita for more information of their importance to the island.