The office and residence of the governor of Puerto Rico is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere, and it has served as the island’s seat of government for more than 3 centuries. Its history goes back even further than that to 1533, when construction began on a fortress to protect San Juan’s Spanish settlers during raids by Carib tribesmen and pirates. The original medieval towers remain, but as the edifice was subsequently enlarged into a palace, other modes of architecture and ornamentation were also incorporated, including baroque, Gothic, neoclassical, and Arabian. La Fortaleza has been designated a national historic site by the U.S. government. Proper attire is required (informal okay).
San Juan
Travel Guide
San Juan› Attraction
La Fortaleza
Calle Fortaleza, overlooking San Juan Harbor
Our Rating
Hours
30-min. tours of the gardens and building (conducted in English and Spanish) given every half-hour, Mon–Fri 9am–3:30pm
Transportation
Bus: Old City Trolley
Phone
787/721-7000, ext. 2211
Prices
Free admission
Map
Calle Fortaleza, overlooking San Juan Harbor San JuanNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.