located in the jurujuba district of rio de janeiro's neighboring city, niterói, the fort is delicately positioned on the apex of the morro do pico, at an altitude of 230 meters.

looming over the east side of the guanabara bay, the spot was chosen due to its location and height, which enabled it to protect the city. the idea to build the fort was initially devised in 1715, however, it was not until 55 years and a number of inspections later, that the structure was completed, ready to begin operations in 1770.

with its objective to protect the entrance of the guanabara bay as well as the fortaleza de santa cruz from possible attacks, the fort had an important role in the defense of the region.