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Fort St. Catherine

 

Was originally built in 1614, but today’s impressive structure was constructed during the 19th century. The drawbridge, ramparts, labyrinthine tunnels and chambers carved deep into the bedrock showcase a classic 19th century British fort.

 

Located at the northern tip of St George and overlooking the ocean, St Catherine fort stands between the St Catherine Beach on one side and Achilles Bay on the other side. One of the most impressive forts in the island, St. Catherine fort has many historic exhibits, artifacts, and a well preserved interior. Surrounded by a dry moat and accessed by a drawbridge, the fort has a large number of tunnels, towers, redoubts and ramparts. In 1609, Sir George Somers's ship Sea Venture was wrecked on a reef near this area. The crew came ashore where the St. Catherine fort now stands. They started the first settlement in Bermuda. 

 

In 1612 Bermuda’s first governor, Richard Moore, arrived in Bermuda from England. Moore built a wooden fort here to defend Bermuda mainly from Spanish attacks. The original St Catherine fort in Bermuda was built around 1614, but it was renovated at least five times. In fact, work continued until late in the 19th century. Today this stone built St Catherine fort houses a museum and is one of Bermuda’s most impressive structures. You can see a collection of antique weapons. In the old artillery store there is a gallery of dioramas depicting Bermuda’s history. 

 

The St Catherine fort was defended by 5 canons, each weighing 18 tons. The shells they fired weighed 400 pounds and were capable of penetrating even thick iron plates. As you stroll through the magazine, you can see numerous pistols, swords, muskets and even 10" Rifle Muzzle Loaders on the gun floor. Replicas of the British Crown Jewels are also on display. There is an audio-visual presentation done here featuring various other forts of St George. 

 

The Children can have a thrilling experience in one of the lower chambers. They can listen to the spooky chanting of 'George the Ghost' during Halloween light show in the chamber, believed to be haunted. An exorcism was held at the fort in the 1970s. Incidentally, St Catherine fort's main terrace overlooking the reefs below has been the setting for several theatrical displays. The most notable was by Hollywood’s Charlton Heston in a 1950s production of Macbeth. 

 

Fort St. Catherine’s is free and open to the public.

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