Castillo San Felipe

Castillo de san Felipe

(Guatemala).

Historic monument defensive fortress built for protection against hackers who penetrated into Guatemalan territory along the Atlantic coast during the sixteenth century. One of the most important tourist attractions in the region, with facilities and services for tourists.

HISTORY OF THE CASTLE OF SAN FELIPE:

In the early sixteenth century trade between Guatemala and METROPOLIS SPAIN established through the so called Golfo Dulce.

The constant attack by pirates in the Gulf of Mexico and incursions into Guatemala through the Rio Dulce was necessary to defend the pass to Lake Izabal where warehouses were storing the goods entering and leaving for Spain.

1595: The Governor informs the King Felipe II of the attacks. Ordering the construction of a tower protected by a dozen soldiers and twelve pieces of artillery, called "Torre de Sande."

1604: After the destruction of the first tower is rebuilt by the Capital Pedro de Bustamante, who takes the name of "Torre de Bustamante." (Port Trust St. Thomas).

1640: Intensified attacks on the area. Some of the most famous pirates were: Diego the Mulatto, Lieutenant of "Pegleg" Anthony Schirley, pirate of aristocratic origin called the "Gentleman Adventurer" robber Jamaica and Puerto Rico; Gareful and William Jackson, who were based operations on the islands of Guanaja and Roatan, and William Parker called for the sacking of Santo Domingo and Puerto Bello.

1651: The judge Lara and rebuilds Mogrovejo Cstillo second time calling it "Castillo de San Felipe de Lara" in honor of the King and himself.

1655: Decreases the attacks and the castle was turned into a prison because of harsh climate and fortification.

1660 to 1966: "Los Hermanos de la Costa", hackers set in Turtle Island, resume attacks and looting. Castle returns to its defensive function.

1669: Military Engineering is entrusted to an inspection Martín de Andujar. In his report states: That the Castle is very damaged, not functional because only with a bucket of 12 yards in diameter covered with straw and table very battered parapets.

1672: Ordered to Francisco de Escobedo, General of Artillery improvements, closing the door with a tinker's lurch and raise the walls.

1679: A new attack from hackers surprised the sentinels of the castle and seize it. Then attacking the landing of supplies called "Wine" (today Seafood). Soon after the attack, Sergeant Major Diego Gomez de Ocampo is sent to do a research setting their deficiencies and includes a map of their environments.

1683: The Dutch pirate and privateer John Zaque named Lorenzo kept in constant fear the Rio Dulce and the coast of Campeche.

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