Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad facts for kids
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Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad
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 Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad
Location in Guam
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| Nearest city | Umatac, Guam |
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| Area | 8 acres (3.2 ha) |
| Built | c.1802-1819 |
| NRHP reference No. | 74002042 |
| Added to NRHP | October 18, 1974 |
Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is an old fort near Umatac, Guam. Its name means "Fort of Our Lady of Solitude" in Spanish. The Spanish built this fort probably between 1802 and 1819. It was one of four forts that protected a safe harbor. This harbor was important for large ships called galleons. These ships sailed between Acapulco, Mexico and the Philippines. This important trade route stopped being used around 1815. This happened because Mexico gained its independence from Spain.
What is Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad?
Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad was a military building. It helped protect the Spanish trade route across the Pacific Ocean. The fort is located on a hill. From there, it could watch over the bay below. This bay was a key stop for Spanish ships.
A Look Back in Time
The Spanish built this fort to defend their ships and trade. The Manila galleons were huge ships. They carried valuable goods like spices, silk, and silver. They sailed once or twice a year. Guam was a vital stop for them to get fresh water and supplies. The fort's cannons would have protected these ships from pirates or enemy navies.
The fort was built with strong stone walls. It had places for cannons to fire from. It was a very important part of Spain's control over the Pacific. When Mexico became independent, the galleon trade route changed. This made the fort less important over time.
Today's Fort
Over the years, the fort has faced some damage. Some people looking for old treasures have harmed parts of it. After World War II, the fort became a public park. This means people can visit it and learn about its history.
In 1974, Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list helps protect important historical sites in the United States. It means the fort is recognized as a special place. It helps us remember Guam's past and its connection to Spanish history.
See also
- In Spanish: Fuerte Nuestra Señora de la Soledad para niños
