Fortin Alvarez (Fort Alvarez), Acapulco

Overlooking the sweeping bay of Acapulco, lies Fort Alvarez — a small, historic outpost whose weathered stone walls whisper tales of colonial defense. Built during the era of New Spain, this fortification was once tied to the larger Fort San Diego as a dedicated munition storehouse and protective bastion.

From its lofty perch, Fort Alvarez commands a sweeping panorama of the bay, city, and surrounding hills. Its strategic location was no accident: high ground enabled defenders to watch for approaching threats and protect the port below. Over the centuries, the fort evolved, leaving behind a distinctive quadrangular layout with walls up to 0.80 m thick and, originally, four corner watchtowers — though only two still stand today.

The fort’s name honors Juan Álvarez Hurtado, a prominent liberal general, and reflects a chapter of local resistance during the Second French Intervention in Mexico. In January 1863, as French naval ships bombarded Acapulco, the fort stood as one of the surviving strongholds mounting defense efforts under Juan’s son, Diego Álvarez. Though it could not alter the course of history, the bulwark still stands as a testament to a time when Acapulco’s fate was contested.