having been capital of of brazil during some of its history, rio de janeiro is home to the largest complex of military forts in brazil - just across the bay from rio, fort do pico is part of brazil's second largest complex of military forts  located in niterói, which shared much of rio's history and was even capital of brazil at one point.

the architectural and historical memory of the city and the state is beautifully preserved in the walls of a dozen forts still standing, home to cannons, jails and lookout points.

once one of rio de janeiro's defensive strongholds, forte do pico is a site drenched in military history, and an attraction of great cultural significance. sometimes referred to as 'the brazilian machu picchu' due to its peculiar structure, this ancient fort is not only a place where to learn about history, but also where to appreciate one of the most beautiful sights in the state.