Significance. La Fortaleza (The Fortress) was the first true fortification in San Juan, established in 152l. The Spanish built it between 1533 and 1540 for protection against raids by Carib Indians and by English and French freebooters.

Fortaleza is famous for its urban beaches, Praia de Iracema and Praia Meireles, where you can enjoy swimming or simply lazing in the beachfront bars and people watching.