| Natal - Historical Building - Reis Magos Fortress |
Reis Magos Fortress |
Started in 1598, “Forte dos Reis Magos” (“Reis Magos” Fortress) is an important
part of the history of Natal. It took about 30 years to finish it and it’s entirely constructed in “taipa”, whale oil and sand. The monument
was used by the Portuguese to protect the coast side of Brazil. Constructed over reefs, the fortress is strategically located to watch for ships
that arrived through the sea as well as through Potengi River.
To arrive at “Forte dos Reis Magos”, one must cross a ramp from where they have
a nice view to the beaches. Today, the fortress is one of the most visited points of the city and the tour is equal to a rich history class.
It has the shape of a stared polygon, where there are distributed the chapel, the weapon’s house, the dormitory and prison. About 100 soldiers
lived there. During the 17th century, the fortress was dominated by Dutchs until the Portuguese took it back. Subsequently, the
fortress was used as prison of the brazilians who fought for independence.
Address: Praia do Forte – end of Meio Beach |