Castillo San Cristobal, San Juan: How to Visit and What to Do Nearby

Castillo San Cristóbal occupies 11 hectares on the northeastern corner of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the Americas. Construction began in 1634 and continued for over 150 years, producing a multi-level system of walls, tunnels, and outworks rising 46 meters above sea level. The fort was designed to defend against land-based attacks from the east, complementing El Morro's protection of the harbor entrance. A complex of underground tunnels and countermine galleries extends beneath the main structure. The site is administered by the National Park Service. is just one of many options in San Juan. Major attractions worth considering include Bacardi Rum Factory (Casa Bacardi), Caguas, and Castillo San Felipe del Morro.