São Mateus Fort is a beautiful and historically significant 17th-century stronghold located on a headland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It has a simple whitewashed exterior with dark brown windows, doors and roofs. Clamber up the verdant and rocky outcrop to reach the base of the fort and begin exploring its intriguing grounds.
Dating back to 1616, the fort is considered one of the oldest colonial structures in Latin America. Portuguese settlers constructed the complex to defend the terrain from Dutch, English and French invaders. Inspect the many cannons that were installed facing toward the Atlantic Ocean to ward off attacks.
The fort has a design typical of colonial military outposts in the region, with towers, bastions and perpendicular ramparts. Admire the preserved white walls made from stone and mortar. It is believed that whale oil and lime were used in the connecting fixtures.
Enjoy the wonderful views of the sand dunes and turquoise water of Forte Beach. Lay down a blanket on a grassy knoll for a picnic and work on your tan as you listen to the soothing sound of the ocean waves. Snap photos of the stunning vista as the sun goes down beyond the horizon, turning the sky crimson.
The fort overlooks a strip of golden sand that is several miles long. Stroll along the beach and relax in the various cafés, restaurants and bars that adorn the coastal promenade.
São Mateus Fort is free to visit and is open to the public daily from morning until early evening. Find it at the northeastern end of Forte Beach, along the main strip of Cabo Frio. It stands on a small promontory overlooking the beach on one side and Japanese Island on the other. Walk here in just a few minutes from the town center. Leave yourself enough time to visit some of the other interesting places nearby. These include the Carlos Scliar Workshop House, Águas Plaza and the Fish Market of Cabo Frio.
