Fort San Lorenzo


In the western part of the Panama Canal , at the mouth of the Chagres River , lies Fort San Lorenzo, a military fortification erected in the 16th century to protect the country from pirate attacks.

History of military fortification

Like many bastions of the time, Fort San Lorenzo was built of coral blocks, which gave it special strength. Modern engineers note that the fortification was not only reliable, but also convenient to handle: all the premises are connected by secret passages and underground lazy. The security of the population of Panama was also guaranteed by the numerous combat weapons that were located throughout the fortress. Most of the guns were cast in England and delivered to San Lorenzo. For more than four hundred years of history, the fort was only once captured by pirates led by Francis Drake. This event occurred in the XVII century.

Fort today

Despite the years, Fort San Lorenzo is well preserved. Today its visitors can see the fortress, the surrounding moat, narrow loopholes in the walls of the bastion and guns. In 1980, the fortification was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition, from the heights of San Lorenzo, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Chagres River, the bay and the Panama Canal.

How to get there?

Getting to the fortress from the nearest town of Colon is most convenient by taxi. The cost of the trip is 60 dollars. If you decide to go to the place by car, then choose the direction to the Gateway Gatun . On the road signs you will arrive at Fort Serman , which is located 10 km from the destination.

You can visit the fortress at any time convenient for you. Free admission. We draw attention to the fact that because of the old age of the structure it is forbidden to climb on its walls and dismantle them for souvenirs. You can take pictures of San Lorenzo inside and outside.