Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres
Facts and practical information
The Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres, also known as the Fortress of Paranaguá, is a formidable historical military complex located in Paraná, Brazil. Constructed in 1767, this castle stands as a sentinel overlooking the strategic entrance to the Bay of Paranaguá, serving as a tangible reminder of the region's colonial past and its significance in the defense of the Brazilian coast.
The fortification was built under the Portuguese crown's orders to protect Brazil from foreign invasions, particularly from Spanish forces. Its location on the top of Guaraguaçu hill provided a commanding view and control over the navigation in the adjacent waters. Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres was an integral part of a larger defensive system, which included a network of forts along the Brazilian coast.
The fortress's architecture is a testament to the military engineering of the 18th century. The main structure is composed of thick stone walls, robust bastions, and a central courtyard. The cannons, which once stood ready to fend off any approaching enemy, now rest silently, pointing out towards the sea. A small chapel inside the fortress adds a touch of serenity to the otherwise martial environment, dedicated to Our Lady of Pleasures, from whom the fort takes its name.
Paraná