Forte Defensor Perpétuo was built in 1703 to defend against pirate raids on the gold passing through Paraty’s port, then rebuilt in 1822 upon Brazil’s independence from Portugal. It’s a 20-minute walk north of town. To get there, cross the bridge over the Rio Perequê Açu, then climb the Morro da Vila Velha, the hill past Praia do Pontal. The fort commands sweeping views over the bay and houses the Centro de Artes e Tradições Populares de Paraty , a museum and gallery that displays fishing implements and baskets, and sells local handicrafts.
