Fortín del Cerro

Guayaquil


This hilltop fort played a critical role in defending the city against pirate attacks during Guayaquil's early days. The cannons are sometimes fired during big celebrations.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Guayaquil attractions

1. Lighthouse

0.01 MILES

You can climb the spiral staircase inside the lighthouse for spectacular 360-degree views of the city and its rivers. It's 444 taxing steps up through…

2. Cerro Santa Ana

0.01 MILES

One of Guayaquil's most iconic sights is this hillside enclave, which is dotted with brightly painted homes, cafes, bars and souvenir shops. Follow the…

3. Capilla Santa Ana

0.05 MILES

This tiny church sits atop Cerro Santa Ana. It's worth climbing up here for the magnificent views.

5. Museo de los Equipos del Astillero

0.11 MILES

A photo- and trophy-filled tribute to Guayaquil's great rival soccer teams, Barcelona and Emelec, this museum is divided neatly into two colors: the…

6. Iglesia de Santo Domingo

0.18 MILES

Behind the open-air Teatro Bogotá is the oldest church in Guayaquil. Founded in 1548 and restored in 1938, it’s worth a look.

7. Numa Pompilio Llona

0.19 MILES

This historic street, named after the well-known guayaquileño poet (1832–1907), begins at the northern end of the malecón, to the right of the stairs that…