Perched on a hilltop, overlooking the small Vieques town of Isabel Segunda, is a tiny castle with low stone walls and a small white-plastered fort. The walls are lined with cannon, and wild horses graze on the grassy slopes below...
The Fuerte de Conde de Mirasol, locally known as El Fortin, was the last fort built by the Spanish in the New world. Construction began in 1845, but never completed.
The main structure was used by local governments as a jail into the 1940's. The Fortin was later abandoned and fell into disrepair. An extensive renovation and restoration project completed in 1991.
The Fortin is now the center of Vieques culture and history. The museum has permanent exhibits of native Taino and Spanish tools and artifacts, and hosts many exhibitions by artists from Puerto Rico and around the world.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum and grounds. The museum's staff are extremely knowledgeable and informative.
The Fortin itself offers sweeping panoramic views of Isabel Segunda, the Puerto Rico Mainland, Culebra island, and St. Thomas (on a good day).
The Fortin hosts numerous events throughout the year; presentations, documentary films, exhibits and much more. Contact the Fortin for upcoming events and group tour information.