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Fort and museum · Campeche, Campeche
Fuerte de San Miguel y Museo de Arquitectura Maya
18th-century fort on a hill south of Campeche, with a moat and drawbridge, housing a Maya archaeology museum with jade masks from Calakmul.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Fuerte de San Miguel y Museo de Arquitectura Maya
The Fort of San Miguel sits atop a hill about 4 km southwest of Campeche's centre, facing the Gulf of Mexico. It was built between 1779 and 1801 to complete the city's sea defences, with a moat, drawbridge and cannons facing the coast.
Inside the fort is the Maya architecture museum, with pieces found at sites in the state of Campeche, such as stelae, ceramics, sculptures and offerings. Highlights are the funeral mosaic jade masks found in the tombs of Calakmul, and pieces from the island of Jaina, an ancient Maya cemetery on the coast.
From the fort's terraces you can see the city, the sea and the malecón. On the other side of the city, on the hill to the north, is the Fort of San José, with a museum of weapons and navigation.
A visit pairs well with sunset, seen from the hilltop.
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
About 1½ to 2 hours.
Best time
In the late afternoon, to see the sunset from the terraces. Check the museum's opening times.
How to get there
It is on the San Miguel hill, about 4 km from Campeche centre. Reachable by taxi, car or tour bus.
Tip
Look for the Calakmul jade masks room. Bring water; the climb up to the fort is steep.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fuerte de San Miguel y Museo de Arquitectura Maya
What is inside the Fort of San Miguel?
The Maya architecture museum, with the Calakmul jade masks and pieces from the island of Jaina.
When was the Fort of San Miguel built?
Between 1779 and 1801.
Is the fort far from the centre?
About 4 km, on a hill to the southwest.