Fortress of Sao Jose da Ponta Grossa

Come see the dazzling Fortress of Sao Jose da Ponta Grossa, One of the most important fortifications of colonial Brazil! Built in 1740 to protect the North Bar of Santa Catarina Island, the Fortress boasts a privileged view of the North Bay and is situated between the beautiful beaches of... Jurerê and Pontal.

With three cannon batteries and 31 artillery pieces, the Fortress controlled the ships arriving on the coast of Santa Catarina, being strategically located halfway between the port of Rio de Janeiro and the Colônia do Santíssimo Sacramento on the Rio de la Plata. Its architecture features various constructive elements distributed across three stepped terraces, and it is the only fortress that has a chapel among its buildings. In fact, the chapel is currently used by the local community!

In addition, you can also visit the São Caetano Battery, built in 1765 with six cannons to protect the beaches of Jurerê and Canasvieiras. Designated a National Historical and Artistic Heritage site in 1938, restored in 1992 and 2023, the Fortress is managed by the Federal University of Santa Catarina.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience a true dive into the history of colonial Brazil, admiring the natural beauty of Santa Catarina Island! Located at Praia do Forte, in the District of Canasvieiras, the Fortress of São José da Ponta Grossa is just 25 km from the center of Florianópolis.