Built to guard the capital
The fort was built between 1908 and 1914 to defend the entrance to Guanabara Bay, when Rio was Brazil's capital.
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Copacabana Fort: the history, and the revolt of the 18
A concrete fortress on the rocky point at the end of Copacabana beach. Here's what you're looking at, and what to listen for when you get there.
Built1908–1914
GunsKrupp, up to 305 mm
Wallsup to 12 m thick
TodayArmy History Museum
Hear the Copacabana Fort story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
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Guns from Germany
Its Krupp guns, up to 305 mm, sat in rotating turrets behind walls up to 12 metres thick.
3
The 18 of the Fort
On 5 July 1922 young officers rose against the government here; a handful marched out along the beach in a revolt remembered as the 18 of the Fort.
TipHave a coffee at the café inside the fort, facing the whole curve of Copacabana. With Urban Tales running, the fort's story plays as you reach the gate at Posto 6.
Nearby landmarks
Copacabana Fort: common questions
When was Copacabana Fort built?
Between 1908 and 1914.
What happened at Copacabana Fort in 1922?
The revolt known as the 18 of the Fort, an uprising of young army officers on 5 July 1922.
Can you visit Copacabana Fort?
Yes, it houses the Army History Museum and has cafés with views over the beach.