Introduction
Florianópolis is known for its breathtaking beaches, but the Magic Island holds other treasures that are worth every minute of your itinerary: its historic fortresses. They once shielded the city against invaders and, today, are a true invitation to travel back in time.
And you know what? The September 7th holiday is perfect for including them in your trip — after all, nothing goes better with Independence Day than revisiting our history.
Fort Santana
Built in 1761 to protect the old village of Nossa Senhora do Desterro, the Santana Fort It is a historical landmark with a privileged view of the North and South bays. Witness to battles such as the Armada Revolt and the Federalist Revolution, the fort holds memories of bombardments and moments that marked the history of the city.
Since 1975, it has housed the Major Lara Ribas Weapons Museum, with rare pieces and artifacts collected between 1938 and 1945. Currently closed for renovations, only the exterior can be visited.
The visit is free and offers a unique experience that combines history, culture, and stunning landscapes of Florianópolis.
Access is easy, both by car and bus: those at the Central Terminal (TICEN) can arrive in about 10 minutes on foot.
- Location: Avenida Beiramar Norte, practically under the Hercílio Luz bridgehead – Downtown
- Hours: Daily, from 9 AM to 5 PM
- Entry: free
Fortress of Sao Jose da Ponta Grossa
Already Fortress of Sao Jose da Ponta Grossa it is located in the charming Praia do Forte, between Jurerê It is Daniela. Built in the 18th century, it once housed 31 artillery pieces and was one of the most strategic points in the island's defense system. Today, it is possible to explore its museum, walk along the walls, and visit the... São Caetano Drumline, just a few meters away, with a wonderful view of the beach of Jurerê. Access is by land, by car or bus.
- Location: Serv. da Carioca, 16 – Forte
- Hours: Daily, from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry: R$ 16.00 (last Sunday of March to November is free)
Fortress of Santo Antonio de Ratones
A Fortress of Santo Antonio de Ratones It is located on Ratones Grande Island, in the north of the island, and can only be visited by boat. It formed, along with... Anhatomirim It is Saint Joseph of Ponta Grossa, A triangle of defense against invaders. Inside the complex, you'll find preserved buildings such as the Commander's House, the Troop Barracks, the Powder Magazine, and even an old Flour Mill. To get there, you need to hire a schooner or boat tour.
- Location: Ratones Grande Island – North Bay
- Opening hours: April to November, 9am to 5pm; December to March, 9am to 7pm (last departure at 6pm)
- Entrance: R$ 8.00 (half price R$ 4.00) (free on the last Sunday of March to November)
Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim Fortress
A Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim Fortress, Located in the neighboring city of Governador Celso Ramos, it is one of the most impressive and well-preserved fortresses in Brazil. Built in the 18th century, it has served as an administrative and military headquarters, and today it is possible to explore spaces such as the Portada (Gateway), the Commander's House, and the Troop Barracks. Access is exclusively by boat or schooner, with departures from Florianópolis and also from Governador Celso Ramos.
- Location: Anhatomirim Island – Gov. Celso Ramos
- Hours: Daily, from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry: R$ 16.00 (last Sunday of March to November is free)
Fortaleza Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Araçatuba
The Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Araçatuba Fortress is the only one that cannot be visited internally, but it still deserves to be on your itinerary. Located at the entrance to the South Bay, it was designed to protect the region and completes the island's defense system. It can be admired from the... Shipwrecked Beach, accessible via a trail of approximately 4 km, starting from Caieira da Barra do Sul.
- Location: Araçatuba Island – view from Naufragados Beach
- Hours: No visits allowed
- Entry: No visits allowed
Conclusion
Visiting the fortresses is like taking a trip back in time. Some you can reach by car, others require a boat trip, which in itself is an incredible experience. And if you want to save money, take advantage of the fact that on the last Sunday of each month, from March to November, the fortresses managed by UFSC (São José da Ponta Grossa, Ratones and Anhatomirim) have free admission.
