Forte de Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Forte de Copacabana stands as a military facility situated at the southern tip of Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, demarcating the Copacabana district. This base is accessible to the general public and encompasses the Army Historical Museum, known as the Museu Histórico do Exército, along with a coastal defense fortress known as Fort Copacabana.

The origins of this fortress can be traced back to a promontory that originally housed a small chapel housing a replica of the Virgen de Copacabana, Bolivia's patron saint. In 1908, the Brazilian army initiated the construction of a modern coastal defense fortress on this promontory, aiming to safeguard both Copacabana Beach and the entrance to the Rio de Janeiro harbor. Completed in 1914, this fortress comprises two armored cupolas, one housing a pair of 305 millimeters (12 inches) Krupp cannons, and the other hosting a pair of 190 millimeters (7 1⁄2 inches) Krupp cannons.

The museum showcases various exhibits that delve into different periods and events in the history of the Brazilian army. It is worth noting that the Brazilian Expeditionary Force's involvement in the Italian campaign during World War II is given limited attention, while Brazil's role in World War I is not covered at all. Additionally, outside the museum, visitors can observe several artillery pieces dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

During the 2016 Summer Olympics, Fort Copacabana served as the venue for the cycling road race (both the starting and finishing points), marathon swimming, and triathlon events.

Why You Should Visit:
To see all of Copacabana and look out into the blue ocean, all the while enjoying a nice breeze. It is even possible to watch some fish in the water because it is so clear!
You can also wander the underground rooms to see how soldiers lived in the bunkers and manned the two large guns as well as visit the ammunition magazines, etc.

Tip:
Stay for a coffee at the cozy Confeitaria Colombo after your visit, but be forewarned that there's often a long wait to sit outside.
Thankfully, there are some bars serving artisanal beer nearby and if you want to grab a snack there is also Café 18 do Forte.
Make sure you walk onto the roof of the fort for a good photo of Copacabana.