the fort was built in the very same spot that was originally home to the small chapel 'nossa senhora de copacabana', that gave the name to this region of the city.
today, the fort houses a library and various expositions on brazilian military history and campaigns and the birth of brazilian nationalism.
the 'café do forte' with outside seating, has one of the best pastries and views of the city, as does the nearby 'Café 18 do Forte' - they are open tuesdays through sundays from 10:00 am through 6:00 pm.
