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Not too long ago, I found myself wandering through the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida (read about that here)—the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. While standing atop its stone walls, staring out at the Matanzas River, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu. It instantly took me back to a trip we did in Puerto Rico, where we explored Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a fortress so grand and imposing that it makes even San Marcos look small.

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Rico, El Morro is an absolute must-visit. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure traveler, or just someone who loves jaw-dropping views, this place has something for everyone. Let’s dive into why this legendary fort belongs on your itinerary.

Built in 1539 by the Spanish to defend Puerto Rico from invaders, El Morro is one of the most well-preserved Spanish military forts in the Americas. It’s even earned UNESCO World Heritage status, which is basically a gold stamp of approval for historic sites.

This massive six-level fortress, with its towering stone walls, secret tunnels, and hidden sentry posts, has seen centuries of battles—from pirate raids to full-on military invasions. The fact that it’s still standing today? Incredible.

Step through the fortress gates, and it’s like traveling back 500 years. You’ll wander through dark tunnels, climb up spiral staircases, and peek inside ancient dungeons.

🚀 Fun fact: In 1595, the legendary English sea captain Sir Francis Drake tried to attack El Morro. The Spanish, however, were not having it—they fired a cannonball straight into Drake’s ship, forcing him to retreat. (That’s what we call a #FortressWin.)

Some highlights you can’t miss:

• The original cannons, still aimed at the ocean.

• The 1843 lighthouse, a later addition that gives the fort even more character.

• The huge grassy esplanade, which was once a battlefield but is now a favorite spot for picnics and kite flying.

Even if you’re not a history lover, the panoramic views from El Morro will leave you speechless. From the fortress walls, you get sweeping ocean vistas, dramatic cliffs, and a bird’s-eye view of Old San Juan.

📸 Pro tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the golden light hits just right—it’s Instagram gold.

Since I’ve been to both, let’s break it down:

🏰 Size & Design – El Morro is bigger, taller, and more complex, with six levels to explore.🌊 Location – Castillo de San Marcos sits on a river, but El Morro? Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, giving it a way more dramatic backdrop.

🛡 Battle History – Both have insane histories, but El Morro held off way more attacks, including multiple full-scale British and Dutch invasions.

Bottom line: If you’ve seen San Marcos, El Morro is like the ultimate level-up.

Before you go, here’s what you need to know:

🔥 It’s HOT! – Puerto Rico sun is no joke. Bring water, sunscreen, and wear breathable clothing.

🎟 Entrance Fee: A small fee gets you access to both El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal.

🕘 Hours: Usually open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. (Check before visiting!)

🚗 Getting There: Located in Old San Juan, it’s an easy walk from major hotels and cruise ports.

📍 Nearby Attractions: After El Morro, explore La Fortaleza, Paseo de la Princesa, and the colorful streets of Old San Juan.

El Morro isn’t just a fortress—it’s a portal to Puerto Rico’s rich history and breathtaking scenery. If you love adventure, stunning views, and stepping into the past, this place is worth every step.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit, book that trip, and experience El Morro for yourself!

💬 Have you been to El Morro? Drop your favorite memory in the comments or tag us in your photos! 📸