Significance. La Fortaleza (The Fortress) was the first true fortification in San Juan, established in 152l. The Spanish built it between 1533 and 1540 for protection against raids by Carib Indians and by English and French freebooters.Fortaleza is the capital of Ceara, Brazil. Its name is Portuguese for "fort," one of which was built in the area in 1649 by Dutch settlers who had encroached upon Portuguese territory. The area's original name, reflecting this, was Fort Shoonenborch.
