Built on a rock overlooking the sea, the Morro Castle was designed by Italian engineer Juan Baustista Antonelli to guard the entrance to the Havana bay. The fort’s most distinctive feature was a huge chain running from EI Morro to another castle nearby. This chain was raised when hostile ships were spotted. It was so thick that ships could not go past it, in 1762, the British lay siege to the fort. It was later recovered by the Spanish under a treaty.
Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro is one the symbols of Havana and one of the most visited places by both tourist and locals. It has been photographed and painted by many and has also appeared in several movies. Inside are several exhibitions, but the construction itself is worth a visit.
Along with a deep moat and two batteries, additional defence was originally provided by an ocean-side tower, replaced in 1844 by a lighthouse called the Faro del Morro. Now a symbol of Havana, it offers one of the finest views of the city, especially at sunset.
Picture Credit : Google