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The Majestic Castillo de San Felipe del Morro in Puerto Rico

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The Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Puerto Rico. This impressive structure was built to protect the entrance to San Juan Bay, located in Old San Juan, one of the oldest urban areas in the Western Hemisphere and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. To this day, the structure is considered one of the best preserved fortresses in the Americas and one of the most popular places to visit while in Puerto Rico. Here are some interesting facts about this spectacular historical site that every traveler should know before visiting Puerto Rico’s capital city.

Things to Do at Fort San Felipe del Morro

The Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is one of most important forts built by Spain during its occupation of Puerto Rico, and has been declared a National Historic Monument of Spain. In 1983, it was listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. From November 1 to December 16, 1797, El Morro fortress withstood a combined land and naval attack against Spanish forces by an Anglo-Spanish alliance that attempted to take control of San Juan Bay. Today you can visit Castillo de San Felipe del Morro where you can tour inside the fortifications while learning about Puerto Rican history. There are also several other things to do at Fort San Felipe del Morro: Walk along La Caleta beach near El Morro Lighthouse—which dates back to 1882—and enjoy views of Old San Juan and El Yunque Rainforest.

Where to Stay While Visiting the Fort

The crown jewel of Old San Juan, the castillo towers over the Atlantic Ocean and sits adjacent to Fortín Conde de Mirasol. Visit one of these two sites to truly understand how much San Juan played a role during Spanish colonialism. The fort was built in 1789 as part of Spain’s efforts to defend its interests from rival European powers; the castillo was constructed around the same time and remained under Spanish rule until 1898.

What to Wear for Your Fort Tour

This fortress was constructed by the Spanish in 1539, at the entrance of the Bay of San Juan. It was one of five fortresses that protected the entrance to Old San Juan. They wanted to protect their treasure and riches from pirates, who were a constant threat in those days. It has seen a lot of action during its 400-year history, but it is now an active tourist attraction and a major part of Puerto Rican heritage. You'll want to wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking uphill for about 30 minutes (there are no stairs). Bring sunscreen, water and bug spray—you don't want these to distract you from enjoying your visit!

How Much Does it Cost?

Today, it stands as an honored and inspiring monument to the ingenuity of Western military, one that today you can visit for free. While the original fort has changed with time, including a number of renovations to make it more resistant to combat and withstand time, the structures still stand strong as a testament to western ingenuity. The cost of visiting is nominal. There are three routes into the fort – all only accessible by foot (the city road doesn’t go there). The most common route is to walk down Fortaleza Street from Puerta de Tierra.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Located right off of beautiful La Fortaleza, a historic site built in 1540 and remodeled to include two majestic statues overlooking Old San Juan and El Morro, one of its most iconic attractions, Restaurant Viejo is said to be a favorite with locals. It’s no wonder that it has been voted Best Restaurant in Old San Juan by readers of Condé Nast Traveler for four years running. The restaurant offers spectacular views of both El Morro and La Fortaleza from its terrace seating area or inside the dining room, which features white tablecloths, candles on each table, and classical music playing softly in the background. It is an elegant place to enjoy a meal before exploring more sites around town. If you’re looking for somewhere different to dine during your trip to Puerto Rico, Restaurant Viejo should definitely be on your list!

Sample Itinerary with Costs Included

The majestic Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is located in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. If you’re planning a trip to Old San Juan—whether for work or play—it would be hard to not include a visit to this iconic structure on your itinerary. While it’s free to enter, there are some costs associated with visiting El Morro National Monument, including: round-trip transportation from your accommodation, entrance fees and lunch or dinner.


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The Majestic Castillo de San Felipe del Morro in Puerto Rico

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Part of the Something Else collection

Updated on June 01, 2022

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