Fort Orange

This fortress was established by the Dutch in 1631 as part of the Dutch colonial efforts in eastern Brazil, during a wider fortification campaign. After the Dutch capitulation in Recife in 1654, Fort Orange was taken over and used by the Portuguese. The fort was neglected in later centuries, but was restored as the island developed into a tourist destination. Today, the fortress receives some 70,000 visitors a year, making it a prime attraction in the region.