Open to
the public Yes In use c. 18th century-1887 | Built c. 18th century | |
Controlled by Portuguese Empire (c. 18th century-around 1887) Events Battle of Maio (1814), defense only | ||
Forte São José may also refer to a fort in Pontinha in the Madeira Islands
Contents
Forte de São José (Portuguese for the Fort of Saint Joseph's or Saint Joseph) is an abandoned fort located in the town of Cidade do Maio (Vila do Maio until 2015) in the southern part in the south of Maio Island, Cape Verde.
History
The island, being of volcanic origin was discovered on May 1, 1460 which brought the island name Maio. Its first settlement was founded later in the late 16th century after salt was founded northwest of town, land was also used for cattle pasture, predominantly goats and some agriculture.
The fort, named after Saint Joseph was built in the 18th century and used to defend the port and town from pirate and corsair attacks, common in the island at the time.
The fort became as a lighthouse in 1887.
In the 20th century, drought affected the island which most residents emigrated.
Today, the fort are one of the tourist attractions of the town and island along with Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Luz (Our Lady of Light)
Uses
The fort is used as part of the Académico 83's sports logo.