Wednesday, May 14, 2008

el morro

I explored the beautiful El Morro fort, which sits at the entrance to the bay of Puerto Rico. The water, beaches, plants, and view from the oldest fort on the island is beautiful. It's a must see while you're in Puerto Rico, and it really gives you perspective on Old San Juan and the new city.

The Spanish began building El Morro in 1539, almost 20 years after they founded San Juan. It was another 250 years before the fort took the shape we see today. This fort was extremely valuable to all the Caribbean islands. Because of Puerto Rico's location, this port controls the entrance to the Caribbean. El Morro has withstood attacks from the English, Dutch, French, Indians, pirates and native Carib Indians.

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