as part of the event, the structure of the former arsenal was expanded and beautified in a characteristic neo-colonial style. by october of 1922, the fortress was opened to the public, described as the 'palace of great industry', and became one of the most visited sections of the exhibit. the remains of the fortress were destroyed by 1939, though a small section was preserved, and now hosts the national history museum.

making up an important part of paraty's military history, forte defensor perpétuo is an ancient relic of interest, perched on the edge of the historic city. the last remaining fort, of seven that defended the city, it has now become one of the most popular tourist spots of the city, attracting an estimated 7,000 visitors a year.