Listen to stories about colonial riches, maritime expeditions and tumultuous battles at San Juan de Ulúa Castle. This imposing castle sits on an island that shares the same name, where it has operated as a fortress, gold storehouse, prison and royal palace throughout its almost 500-year history. Visit San Juan de Ulua Castle to wander around its battlements, across bridges and along corridors. Browse displays of colonial and pre-Hispanic artifacts at the castle museum.
Learn about the castle’s history. The fortress dates back to 1565, when it was built to protect Veracruz, which was the main port of entry to a colonized Mexico. It controlled much of the import and export trade of New Spain and housed vast amounts of the viceroyalty’s treasures. In 1568, the castle survived a raid by an English fleet during the Battle of San Juan de Ulúa. U.S. troops captured the castle in 1848 and it went on to become a prison for infamous Mexican felons.
A great way to see the castle and discover the fascinating history is on a guided tour. Cross the causeway that connects it to the mainland and enter via the northern gateway. Note the 3-foot-thick (1-metre) stone walls and rows of arches, which served as storage space for gold, silver and other valuable goods. See cannons lined up along the quay, where galleons loaded and unloaded their cargo.
Look for the decaying sentry boxes and the circular observation tower. Go down into the dungeon and imagine the squalid living conditions that criminals endured. Don’t miss the remains of a chapel and a mysterious shrine to Our Lady of the Staircase. Climb onto the ramparts and enjoy views across to Veracruz’s city centre. The museum holds examples of pre-Hispanic ceramics and sculptures in addition to information about the castle’s long history.
Reach San Juan de Ulúa Castle via taxi or catch a water taxi from the Malecón. The castle is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee. English-speaking guides are available for a nominal fee.
