Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim Fortress

Welcome to the impressive Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim Fortress, a historical treasure on the paradisiacal Anhatomirim Island, in Governador Celso Ramos.

During the 19th century, when the Portuguese began exploring these lands, Anhatomirim became a strategic location occupied by European colonists. They established three large fortresses, the main one being... Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim the pioneer, followed by Saint Joseph of Ponta Grossa on Santa Catarina Island and by Saint Anthony on Ratones Grande Island, all created to protect what was then called Desterro (which would later be known as Florianópolis) from invasions by other countries, mainly Spain.

The fortress buildings are scattered across the island, showcasing stone walls that date back to ancient artillery batteries, providing a unique and impressive landscape. Local materials were prioritized in the construction, except for "lioz," a white Portuguese limestone found in door sills, staircases, and cannon bases.

Among these constructions, the Cover, With its oriental influence, it leads visitors up a limestone staircase. Commander's House, a colonial townhouse, evokes the atmosphere of the Brazilian colonial era. Meanwhile, Troop Barracks, With its ground-level arcades, it boasts grandeur, being the largest barracks among Brazilian fortifications.

The fortress's turbulent history includes events such as the Spanish invasion of 1777 and the Federalist Revolution of 1894. Throughout the 20th century, it served various roles, including prison and execution site. After World War II, it was decommissioned due to advancements in military technology.

Thanks to an agreement between the Federal University of Santa Catarina, the Ministry of the Navy, and the National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage, the fortress was revitalized. In 1984, it opened its doors to the public after an ambitious restoration project completed between 1989 and 1990. Now it's your turn to explore this place full of history and charm!

Interesting facts:

• The fortress ended up earning the nickname "Brazilian Alcatraz," since the island was used as a prison, and, let's face it, it was practically impossible to escape from there, as it's far from the coast.
• The rocky island is a modest 4.5 hectares, but the diversity of life that thrives there is incredible! Especially in the surrounding waters, where starfish, dolphins, and various small fish call the island's three beaches home. Nature has truly outdone itself in creating this little piece of paradise!
• Believe it or not: back in the 19th century, the Fortress played an unusual role as a sanatorium for contagious diseases and epidemics. Imagine, inspecting arriving ships and serving as a kind of quarantine for those who were sick. This fortress really saw it all over the years!

News!

The Fortress is undergoing exciting restorations! Soon, you'll be able to explore an incredible virtual aquarium in the New Powder Magazine, inside the Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim Fortress. Don't worry, no animals will be kept there – it's all virtual! You'll also be able to enjoy an eco-friendly tour aboard a boat and electric buses powered by solar energy. These new features, inspired by research from UFSC (Federal University of Santa Catarina), will make your visit even more sustainable and unforgettable!

To explore this historical gem, you'll need to embark on a boat trip with companies like... South Schooner, leaving from Florianópolis, or Pirate Adventure – Black Corsair, Departing from Governador Celso Ramos, discover the secrets of the Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim Fortress and immerse yourself in its rich history.