Itapema Fort, a historical heritage site on the São Paulo coast, is about to experience a new era. After almost 500 years of existence, the building will be transformed into a cultural center full of attractions ranging from a city museum to musical and gastronomic programming.
The project is the result of a partnership between the KondZilla Institute, the Guarujá City Hall and third sector organizations. The aim is not only to revitalize the historical heritage of the São Paulo coast, but also to create a creative hub with professional training, artistic events and tourist activities, strengthening the cultural scene of the Baixada Santista.
Itapema Fort: from military fort to coastal heritage site
The Itapema Fort was built in the 16th century, in the midst of conflicts between the Portuguese and other European crowns that disputed the coast of São Paulo. Although there is no consensus on the date of its construction, historians claim that the first mention of the fort was on a map from 1573.
Built on rocks by the sea, its purpose was to protect the Santos coast from foreign invaders. Over the centuries, it also served as a gunpowder depot and customs post, as well as an observation point for the navy during the Second World War.
However, new military centers were built from 1950 onwards, and the Itapema Fort was put aside. Its century-old facilities fell into neglect and suffered the ravages of time and the coastal weather.
Big changes ahead!
Revitalization work on the Itapema Fort began in 2024 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The restoration promises to restore the original beauty of the place, with the reconstruction of the walls and other structures. In addition, the heritage site on the coast of São Paulo will receive lighting, a pier and communal areas with accessibility.
This infrastructure will house the new Itapema Cultural Center, which promises to give the space a new meaning without leaving its centuries-old essence behind. Among the attractions are a pavilion for concerts, workshops and exhibitions; a museum about the history of Guarujá; and a gastronomic center with caiçara food. Another highlight will be the KondZilla Creative Hub, which will offer training in audiovisual and content creation for young people from the Baixada Santista.
The project promises to transform the Itapema Fort into a meeting point, with permanent and accessible cultural programming. As a result, São Paulo residents will have yet another unmissable attraction to visit on the São Paulo coast, just 100 kilometers from the capital.
