Place

San Pedro Bastion

When viewed from above, as from a birdâ€™s eye, the Castillo is square in shape, with four diamond-shaped bastions extending from each corner. These diamond shaped bastions are connected by the gundeck. The San Pedro Bastion is located on the northwest corner of the Castillo. The view from this bastion includes the moat, the grassy area surrounding the Castillo, and the parking lot. The historic city and the original stone pillars that held the city gate can also be seen from this location. The bastion has low walls, about 5 feet tall. Each side of the diamond-shaped structure is unique. Facing the bastion from the gundeck, going from left to right: Along the east facing wall there are two cutouts in the wall, with a two-step platform between, each about 2 Â½ feet tall and extending out from the wall about 4 feet. Between the platforms, the upper walls have cutouts about three feet wide by three feet high, stopping at the platform level. On the south facing wall there are three cutouts with two-step platforms between them. A cylindrical shaped sentry box with a domed top is at the southwest corner. It is closed to the public by a wooden barricade. The west facing wall no two-step platforms along this side, with one cutout at the north end of this wall. The north facing wall has one four foot wide cut out with no two-step platforms. In the center of the bastion is a 9 foot square, low wooden platform. A rope stretches between metal posts at each corner. In the center of the platform is another wooden platform with a 15-inch bronze cannon, called a mortar. The bronze has weathered into a pale green patina color. The tube-shaped mortar barrel is tilted up into the air at about a 45-degree angle. Its base is connected, crossways, to a thick bronze rod. This rod is secured to the wooden platform by thick metal strips with rounded metal knobs. The front of the mortar platform has a raised wooded lip with metal strips securing it on each end. The mortar barrel has ornate bronze sculptures. Near the base is a bearded face and the date 1724. At the center of the barrel is a coat of arms. At the top, are two curved handles in a dolphin shape.

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot

The design of the fort consists of four diamond-shaped bastions and four connecting walls known as curtains. Cannon were mounted in the embrasures, the cut-outs in the parapet walls.

Last updated: April 9, 2021