San Felipe Fort, which has admirably withstood the onslaught of time, stands guard over the entrance to the harbour of Puerto Plata. Its extremely strategic location can be admired from the ramparts, rich in panoramic views. Built around 1540 to defend the town from pirates and buccaneers, the fort also served as a prison that played host to a famous guest, freedom fighter and hero, Juan Pablo Duarte (mid-19C).