Fort San Lorenzo

About

Fort San Lorenzo was built at the end of the 16th century by order of King Philip II of Spain. Guarding the mouth of the Chagres River, and watching over miles of coast, the fort protected Spanish commerce and slaves ships from marauding pirates and buccaneers. After the destruction of Portobelo in the early 18th century, San Lorenzo briefly served as Spain’s chief port in the region before being abandoned a few decades later. Today, the ruins of the mighty fort with its rusting canons serves as an atmospheric reminder of swashbuckling days-gone-by. From its hilltop position, visitors are also treated to some stunning panoramic views, and the surrounding protected area is home to a colony of monkeys.