The Baluarte de San Juan is the smallest of the eight bastions of the formidable city walls which once surrounded Campeche. Yet it is no less impressive than its larger counterparts, such as the Baluarte de San Francisco. Enjoy some of the best views in Campeche from this incredible vantage point and gaze across the rooftops of both the old and new cities.
Campeche’s colonial era started in 1517. News soon spread of its new-found wealth and pirates from far and wide repeatedly attacked the city over the following decades. Desperate to end the onslaught, the residents and city leaders of Campeche decided to build a massive defensive wall, enclosing all of what is today the old town. Visit and you will see that the walls themselves are no longer standing, but the great bastions and entrance gates remain.
Climb to the top of the Baluarte de San Juan and you will find, on its south side, the bell which was rung to alert citizens of an imminent pirate attack. Imagine the ruthless pirates approaching across the horizon as they made their way to plunder the city.
Bring your family to enjoy the fascinating exhibition on the history of the bastions located inside the Baluarte de San Juan. There is also an old underground dungeon, where captured pirates and criminals were once held in terrible conditions.
The only remaining part of Campeche’s city walls can be found here, connecting San Juan with Puerta de Tierra. The short walk from one to the other offers some of the finest views in the city. Be sure to take your camera to capture the 360-degree panoramas.
Baluarte de San Juan is located on Calle 18, between Calles 8 and 10. See it as part of a self-guided walking tour that takes you right into the heart of Campeche’s old town. To see the inside the bastion, visit any day except Monday, when it is closed.
