Fortress of Our Lady of the Guide

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Açores > Horta > Horta > Monte da Guia

Location

The Fort of Nossa Senhora da Guia is located in the city of Horta, on the picturesque island of Faial, part of the Azores archipelago. It is positioned on the escarpment of Monte da Guia, a natural elevation that dominates the local landscape.

From this strategic point, it is possible to enjoy a wide view over Horta Bay and the city, also offering stunning perspectives of the imposing island of Pico. Integrated into the Monte da Guia Protected Landscape, the site provides a natural and serene environment, inviting peaceful observation of the surroundings.

A Defensive Legacy

This fortification, sometimes also known as Forte da Guia or Castelo da Greta, had its construction initiated in 1666. Its main function was to integrate the island's defense system, protecting Horta against the frequent attacks by pirates and privateers who once roamed these Atlantic waters.

The fort's structure was complemented by a set of walls that extended across Monte da Guia, and today it is still possible to find some remnants of these ancient defenses, testifying to the strategic importance the site held over the centuries.

Architecture and Current State

The Fort of Nossa Senhora da Guia features an irregular plan, built in stone masonry, and is characterized by its twelve embrasures, which open in a line, facing the sea, once ready to respond to any threat. There was also a two-compartment building at the eastern end, which would have supported operations.

Currently, the fort lies in ruins, a result of the passage of time and interventions such as the opening of the Monte da Guia road in the mid-20th century, which led to the demolition of some of its original parts. Nearby, there were also old elevated radar platforms, deactivated many years ago. Despite its state, the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Guia maintains its recognition as a Property of Public Interest, underlining its historical and patrimonial value.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt