Constructed in the 18th century, Real Felipe Fortress was built to defend the city of Lima and Peru’s main port – the port of Callao – from corsairs and pirates. It’s primarily known for the pivotal role it played in the Battle of Callao during the Chincha Islands War of 1866, when Spain attempted to re-conquer Peru. This battle ended the war making Dos de Mayo (May 2nd in English) a revered Peruvian date. Today, the fortress serves as a history and military museum managed by the Peruvian army, they offer two-hour guided tours of the complex and museums in Spanish and English. Exhibits feature historic Peruvian military textiles, weaponry including 19th-century cannons and WWII tanks, and other military paraphernalia.
Plaza Independencia, Callao 07021, Lima, Peru, Phone: +51-14-29-05-32