Castillo San Cristobal - San Juan, Puerto Rico

Castillo San Cristóbal is another historic fortress in San Juan, Puerto Rico, built by the Spanish between 1634 and 1790. It was constructed as a defense against land-based attacks, complementing the more well-known Castillo San Felipe del Morro, which protected the city from sea invasions. San Cristóbal is the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the Americas, covering nearly 27 acres. The fortress was designed to withstand attacks from advancing armies and to fortify the city's defenses, with walls and structures strategically placed to offer protection. It includes a series of complex tunnels, bastions, and a dry moat that adds to its formidable appearance.

Today, Castillo San Cristóbal is a significant part of the San Juan National Historic Site, and like its counterpart El Morro, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. The fort offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape, including the ocean and the coastline. Visitors can explore its vast interior, where they can walk through its tunnels, climb to its ramparts, and learn about its military history through informative exhibits. San Cristóbal stands as a testament to Puerto Rico's strategic importance during the colonial period and remains an essential landmark for those interested in the island’s rich history and military architecture.