The lead of Old San Juan, El Morro extends undoubtedly bold hills, glaring across the Atlantic at would-be conquerors. The 140ft walls date back to 1539 and El Morro is said to be the oldest Spanish fortress in the New World. Displays inform us the construction of the fort, which took almost 200 years, as well as El Morro’s role in resisting assaults on the island by the British, the Dutch and, later, the U.S. Army. A short film presenting a historical overview of the fort is screened every 15 minutes.
The gray, castellated lighthouse on the 6th floor has been in order since 1846, making it the island’s oldest lighthouse still in use today. After experiencing severe damage, the original lighthouse was rebuilt with unique Spanish-Moorish features, a fashion that blends in surprisingly well with the rest of the fort.
The National Park Service preserves this fort and the small military museum on the bases. It was announced a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1983. On weekends, the parks leading up to the fort are alive with picnickers, lovers and kite flyers. The scene becomes a kind of unprepared festival with food vendors’ carts selling yummy delicacies.
The fort is located 2.8 km from the center. You can drive from San Juan to 501 Calle Norzagaray for 5 minutes.
You cab also walk or even take a free trolley.
Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Waiting Time
Entrance Fee
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