Consider the year 1711. Imagine pirate ships appearing on the horizon. Here we are at Forte Tamandaré da Laje. It stands defiant against the sea. This fort has guarded Guanabara Bay for centuries. Its story is one of strategic importance. It is also a testament to Brazilian resilience.
Forte Tamandaré da Laje sits on a rocky outcrop. The outcrop measures about 100 meters long and 60 meters wide. It strategically defends the bay’s entrance. Construction of the fort began in 1644. A royal charter authorized its construction. Funds came from taxes on patacas coins. Progress was slow. In 1711, the fort could not fight back. French corsair René Duguay-Trouin invaded. The fort was still under construction. Work continued under Governor Francisco Xavier de Távora. He used 40,000 cruzados from customs duties. The fort’s structure was visible by 1730. Finally, construction finished in 1770.
The fort also served as a prison. In 1836, Farroupilha revolutionary leader Bento Gonçalves was imprisoned here. Pedro Boticário was also imprisoned there. They tried to escape through a window. Pedro was too large to fit. Bento refused to leave without him. Both were moved to other prisons.
Over time, Forte Tamandaré da Laje underwent changes. In 1838, it housed 280 soldiers. Major José Gomes da Silva commanded them. The fort had twenty cannons. However, its low elevation made it vulnerable. In 1892, a military revolt occurred. It was against President Floriano Peixoto. Sergeant Silvino Honório de Macedo led it. The revolt was quickly suppressed.
Extensive damage occurred during the Armada Revolt in 1893. The fort received Krupp C15 L/40 cannons in 1895. Modernization began in 1896. The main structure was completed in April 1901. Steel cupolas were installed. By 1903, the fort had new towers. One tower had two 240mm cannons. Another had two 150mm cannons. Two more had two 75mm cannons each. Electrical installations were also added. Work continued until its inauguration on July 28, 1906.
In 1953, the fort was renamed Forte Tamandaré. This honored the Navy. The Army’s 1st Battery of the 4th Coastal Artillery Group was stationed here in the 1950s. It remained active until 1997. It was under the command of Fortaleza de São João.
Today, Forte Tamandaré da Laje lacks official classification. The Army’s Physical Training Center oversees it. In 2002, the Army assessed the costs for its recovery. The costs were too high. The fort is corroded by sea air and rust. However, private initiatives are interested in restoring the fort. The goal is to turn it into a tourist attraction. The casemated fort once had lodgings and a kitchen.
Many historical figures were detained here. José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva was one. His brothers were also prisoners. Cipriano José Barata de Almeida was held here. Olavo Bilac was detained for criticizing President Floriano Peixoto. Marshal Henrique Batista Duffles Teixeira Lott was imprisoned. He opposed a coup in 1961. He criticized military ministers.
Forte Tamandaré da Laje stands as a symbol. It represents resilience. It also embodies strategic defense. Its history is rich. The fort has witnessed centuries of Brazilian history. Its stones whisper tales of battles. They also tell stories of imprisonment and transformation.