La Fortaleza (The Fortress)

The Basics

La Fortaleza was built between 1533 and 1540, and it’s an impressive sight to behold from the approach through Calle Fortaleza, a narrow street. The historic structure is the oldest executive mansion in the Western Hemisphere, and one can still see stone fortifications erected by the Spanish.

Although travelers aren't permitted roam the governor’s mansion at will, guided walking tours (held on weekdays) cover the lush gardens and will venture inside the building when the government is not in session. Walking tours or Segway tours of Old San Juan often make stops at the governor's residence, as well as other important Old San Juan sites and government buildings in the San Juan National Historic Site.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Since La Fortaleza is a functioning government building, it’s subject to closures without warning; additionally, interior tours aren’t available while government is in session.

• The gardens surrounding the palace are a great place for kids to burn off some energy.

• Like many buildings constructed centuries ago, La Fortaleza is not fully handicap accessible.

How to Get There

La Fortaleza, located in the heart of Old San Juan, is walkable from most other destinations in downtown. Several local bus lines stop at the Terminal Covadonga San Juan, which is an easy walk to La Fortaleza.

When to Get There

The Palacio de Santa Catalina is open from 9am to 4pm on weekdays for guided tours. Puerto Rico has a mild climate year around; hurricane season runs from June through November. The weather in April through June is considered the best—it’s warm but not too hot or rainy.

The San Juan National Historic Site

La Fortaleza is part of the San Juan National Historic Site, which includes other landmarks such as the San Juan Gate, the Castillo de San Cristobal, the city walls (La Muralla), and the Paseo del Morro. All of these sites are situated within easy walking distance of the governor’s mansion.

What is La Fortaleza, and why is it significant?

La Fortaleza (The Fortress) originally was built to defend the island and was completed in 1540. It has been a fortress, an arsenal, a prison, the residence of the Governor General, and today is the seat of government and residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico.

Is La Fortaleza open to the public for tours?

Yes, La Fortaleza is open for tours, which are offered weekdays from early morning to mid-afternoon. Tours, which last around 30 minutes, cover the gardens of the fortress and—when the government is not in session—the interior, as well. Since it’s a functioning government building, closures can occur without warning.

What are the main features and highlights of a visit to La Fortaleza?

You can explore La Fortaleza on a free, 30-minute guided tour to learn the fort’s history. Tour highlights include the fort’s gardens, chapel, and dungeon. When the government is not in session, tours also will typically include a portion of the interior of the building.

Is there a fee to enter La Fortaleza?

No, there is no fee to enter La Fortaleza. However, it’s best to reserve your spot on a tour in advance, since closures of this government building can occur at any time without notice. Always double-check your reservation on the day to ensure that the fort is open.

Can I take photographs inside La Fortaleza?

No, photographs are not permitted inside La Fortaleza. However, the tour guides will take a photo of you and email it to you afterward. You must turn over your phone before going on a guided tour of the fort, which typically includes the gardens and, when possible, the interior.

Is La Fortaleza wheelchair accessible?

Yes, La Fortaleza is accessible to visitors in wheelchairs, and accessible tours of the garden and grounds are available. It’s best to inquire ahead of time and to make a reservation for the accessible tour. Be advised that getting to La Fortaleza requires going over cobblestone streets.