Nossa Senhora da Assunção Fortress
Ceará
The Nossa Senhora da Assunção Fortress is a prominent historic fortification situated on the left bank of the Pajeú creek mouth, atop Marajaitiba hill in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Originally constructed in 1649 by the Dutch and named Forte Schoonenborch, it was later reclaimed and renamed by the Portuguese. The fort played a central role in coastal defense during periods of conflict and colonial struggles. Architecturally, the fortress is designed in a square shape with 90-meter sides and features bastions at each corner named after religious and royal figures. It was initially armed with a handful of cannons, later expanding to over thirty artillery pieces. The fortress also served various military purposes, housing multiple infantry battalions and a military school. Notably, it detained Bárbara de Alencar, a pioneering political prisoner and revolutionary leader. Today, it functions as the headquarters of the 10th Military Region of the Brazilian Army and remains a key historical landmark marking the foundation of Fortaleza city, whose urban development originated around this fort.
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Astuce: Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and to witness military ceremonies. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended when available. The fortress is accessible year-round, with the dry season (July to December) offering more pleasant weather. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours provide valuable historical context and enhance the visit.
Faits intéressants
- •The fortress was originally built by the Dutch and named Forte Schoonenborch before Portuguese control.
- •Bárbara de Alencar, considered Brazil's first political prisoner, was detained here during the 1817 Pernambucan Revolution.
- •A commemorative Latin inscription on the fortress walls honors its foundation and the engineers involved.
- •The fortress marks the zero milestone of the city of Fortaleza, from which the city expanded.
- •The fortress has housed various military units including infantry battalions and a military school over the centuries.
Histoire
The original fortification in the area was the Fort of São Sebastião, built to protect the Ceará coast but soon demolished due to its weak structure.
The current fortress was erected by the Dutch in 1649 as Forte Schoonenborch during their occupation.
In 1812, the Portuguese Crown regained control and renamed it Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção.
A new structure was commissioned by Governor Manuel Inácio de Sampaio e Pina Freire in 1812, designed by engineer António José da Silva Paulet, featuring a square plan with bastions.
The fortress underwent expansions and repairs throughout the 19th century, including enhancements during the Christie Question and continued military use into the 20th century.
It has been a symbol of Fortaleza's origins and military history since its foundation.
Guide du lieu
Bastions of the Fortress1812
The fortress features four bastions at each corner named Nossa Senhora da Assunção, São José, Dom João, and PrÃncipe da Beira, each serving defensive purposes and named after religious and royal figures.
Commemorative Latin Inscription1817
A Latin plaque on the northern outer wall commemorates the fortress's foundation in 1817, honoring Governor Sampaio and engineer Paulet, highlighting the fortress's transformation from a mere hill to a stronghold.
Military Headquarters
Currently, the fortress houses the headquarters of the 10th Military Region of the Brazilian Army, continuing its strategic military role.
