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Fort and museum · Acapulco, Guerrero
Fuerte de San Diego
An 18th-century star-shaped fort overlooking Acapulco Bay that protected the port from the Manila Galleon, housing the Acapulco Historical Museum.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Fuerte de San Diego
The Fort of San Diego stands on a hill above Acapulco Bay, near the Zócalo. The first fort was built in 1617 to defend the port from Dutch and English pirates who attacked ships loaded with silver and goods from Asia. Destroyed by an earthquake in 1776, it was rebuilt as a five-pointed star with a moat and bastions.
The fort played a role in the war of independence when it was besieged by the troops of José María Morelos, who captured it in 1813.
Today it houses the Acapulco Historical Museum, with rooms about the coastal peoples, Pacific navigation, the Manila Galleon route, piracy and independence. There are pieces of Chinese porcelain, silks, maps and weapons.
From the bastions you can see the whole bay, the port and the ships.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 hour to 1 hour and a half.
Best time
In the morning, before the heat. The museum is closed one day a week; check before you go.
How to get there
It is on Avenida Costera, near the Zócalo, in traditional Acapulco. You can go on foot or by taxi.
Tip
See the Manila Galleon room, with pieces brought from Asia.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fuerte de San Diego
Why was the Fort of San Diego built?
To defend the port from pirates who attacked the ships of the Manila Galleon.
What is inside the fort?
The Acapulco Historical Museum, with rooms about navigation, the Manila Galleon and independence.
Is the fort near the Zócalo?
Yes, in traditional Acapulco.