Fort San Lorenzo (Fuerte de San Lorenzo) is one of the most interesting sights of Colón. It has an incredibly rich history and, despite its very old age, a beautiful appearance. It is very interesting to walk around the fort, imagining how powerful it was during its heyday.

It all started in 1598 when they began to build fortifications in the city by order of the Spanish King Philip II. The fortifications were supposed to protect the sea route and warehouses of goods from the raids of pirates who traded in this territory.

The construction of the massive fort was supervised by a specially invited Italian engineer Antonelli. He chose a location for the future fort, the top of a high reef. So the towers would have a greater view, and it would be harder to attack the fort.

The fort had carried out its tasks for more than half a century. Until in 1670, the pirate Henry Morgan attacked it, leaving only ruins from Fuerte de San Lorenzo. The Spaniards were defeated, but this did not stop them. 10 years later, after recapturing the territory, they built a new, more fortified and powerful fort.

In the 18th century, the life of the fortress became calmer. Trade routes moved closer to South America and Cape Horn. The Chagres River, near which the fortification is located, almost lost its economic significance. So the fort quickly turned from a fortification into a large prison that existed for more than 100 years.

In 1908, the old building attracted the attention of the country's government. The prison had to be maintained, while the tourist site could start making money on its own. Therefore, it was decided to repurpose the historical monument. First, the prisoners were moved from the building. Then the entire complex was recognized as an architectural complex protected by the state. And finally, the buildings were reconstructed. Once a formidable fort has become a favorite place of recreation for citizens and tourists.

In 1980, UNESCO added Fuerte de San Lorenzo to the list of World Heritage Sites, calling it a magnificent example of military architecture of the 17-18th centuries.