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The Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort, located in the city of Salvador, Bahia, is one of the most iconic and well-preserved examples of colonial military architecture in Brazil. Considered an important tourist spot, the fort offers a combination of historical and cultural value and panoramic views that attract local and international visitors.

The Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort, also known as Forte de Monte Serrat or simply Forte de São Felipe, is one of the most important and beautiful military constructions in Salvador, Bahia.

Strategically located on the Itapagipe peninsula, close to the Church of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat, the fort played a crucial role in the city’s defence during the colonial period.

Video – Aerial view of the Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort

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Vista aérea do Forte de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat

Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort

1. Origin and Construction

• Start of construction
  Construction of the Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort began in 1583, during the government of Manoel Teles Barreto, who was the governor-general of Brazil at the time. The fort was built with the aim of defending the entrance to Todos-os-Santos Bay, a strategic position to protect Salvador, the then capital of Brazil, from foreign invasions and pirate attacks.
• Architecture and Design
  The Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort is considered one of the most beautiful examples of military architecture in colonial Brazil, with a style that mixes Renaissance influences and traditional Portuguese features. It was originally designed as a fortification made of wood and rammed earth, but over the years, especially from 1602 onwards, it underwent renovations to transform it into a more resistant and permanent stone and lime structure.
• Strategic Location
  Situated on top of a hill, the fort had a privileged view of the entrance to Todos-os-Santos Bay, which provided an ideal vantage point for spotting enemy ships and protecting the city from possible attacks. Its location allowed the artillery pieces to cover a wide area of the coastline, including the entrance to Salvador’s harbour.

2. Military Function and Defence

• Defence against Dutch Invasions
  In 1624, during the Dutch invasion of Salvador, the Monte Serrat Fort played a crucial role in the city’s defence. The Dutch managed to capture Salvador, but the fort was one of the last fortresses to resist and be conquered by the invaders. After the Portuguese retook the city in 1625, the fort was repaired and reinforced.
• Additional Fortifications
  Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the fort underwent several extensions and modernisations. It received new, higher and thicker walls, as well as increasing the number of cannons and improving the facilities for the soldiers who were garrisoned there.

3. Structure and Architectural Features

• Shape
  The Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort has an irregular polygonal shape, typical of the fortifications of the time, with protruding bastions that allowed for ample covering fire and greater resistance against attacks. This structure facilitated defence and visibility in the surrounding area, minimising blind spots and improving protection against enemy artillery attacks.
• Walls and Towers
  The walls are thick and made of stone and lime masonry, providing a solid barrier against artillery attacks. The fort includes watchtowers at its angles, which were used to observe movement in the bay and around the city.
• Entrance Door and Interior
  The fort’s entrance is protected by a sturdy wooden door, surrounded by defensive walls. Inside, there are lodgings for the soldiers, weapons and ammunition stores, as well as a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Monte Serrat, after whom the fort is named.

4. Decline and Current Use

• Loss of Military Function
  With the passage of time and changing military needs, the Monte Serrat Fort gradually lost its strategic importance. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the advance of military technology and the growth of the city of Salvador, the fort was decommissioned as an active military installation.
• Trusteeship and Preservation
  In 1938, the fort was listed by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN) as one of Brazil’s historical and cultural heritage sites, recognising its architectural and historical importance. Since then, the fort has undergone restorations and been preserved as a historical monument.
• Tourist Attraction
  Today, the Fort of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat is a popular tourist attraction in Salvador. Open to the public, it offers a spectacular view of Todos-os-Santos Bay, attracting visitors interested in Brazil’s military history, colonial architecture and the natural beauty of the region.

5. Cultural and Historical Significance

• Symbol of Resistance
  The fort represents the resistance and struggle for the defence of Salvador during the colonial period, especially against Dutch invasion attempts. Its history is linked to the defence of Brazilian territory and the effort to maintain Portuguese sovereignty in South America.
• Cultural Heritage
  In addition to its military importance, the fort is a cultural and religious symbol, being dedicated to Our Lady of Monte Serrat, to whom many faithful attribute protection and miracles. The fort’s chapel is still a place of devotion for many Bahians.

6. Access and infrastructure for visitors

• Access: The Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort is accessible to the public and open for visits. There is a small entrance fee to help maintain and preserve the site. The location is easily accessible from the centre of Salvador, and the site has parking nearby.
• Infrastructure: The site has basic infrastructure to welcome visitors, including toilets and a small souvenir shop. Tour guides are often available to provide detailed information about the fort’s history and curiosities.

7. Tourist Importance

• Popular Attraction: The fort is a popular attraction for tourists who want to explore Salvador’s rich history and better understand the city’s importance during the colonial period. Its preservation and tranquil setting make it a pleasant place for family visits and for those interested in history and photography.

8. Summary

The Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort, built at the end of the 16th century, is one of the most important historical fortifications in Salvador, Bahia.

Get to know in detail the Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort History

Originally designed to protect the city from foreign invasions and pirate attacks, the fort played a crucial role during the Dutch invasions in the 17th century.

With its impressive architecture and strategic location on the Itapagipe peninsula, the fort not only symbolises military resistance and defence, but also preserves the region’s cultural and religious heritage.

Today, as a listed historical monument, the Monte Serrat Fort continues to attract visitors and tell the story of Salvador and Brazil.