the brazilian marines would
establish their headquarters there in 1809, but in time the
island would become increasingly more important to the growing
brazilian navy in general.
during the 19th century and good part
of the next one the installations would be greatly expanded as
the needs of warfare became increasingly more demanding.
the modern 'ilha das cobras'
has the são josé fortess at its core, where several cabinets of
the brazilian navy are located.