Ancient history

Why did the Spaniards build el morro?

The Spaniards built El Morro to defend the entrance to San Juan Bay and the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The first fortification on the site, a small watchtower, was built in the 16th century. The current fort, which is much larger and more elaborate, was built in the 17th and 18th centuries. El Morro was designed to withstand attacks from both land and sea, and it played a key role in defending San Juan from attacks by the British, French, and Dutch. Today, El Morro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.