fortin conde de mirasol museum

Well, typical for us, we walked in the wrong door of the museum after the steep ride up the hill. No worries though, the people seated around the table were very friendly, relaxed and bemused at our blundering in on what looked like a lunch break during their work day. We were politely directed around the side of the building and up the slope to the MAIN entrance. The fort was built by the Spanish as the last fortification in the PR islands during the twilight of their New World empire. It fell into disrepair and has since been lovingly restored (late '80s, early 90s) as an emblem and symbol of pride in Puerto Rican culture and history. The upper floors are a combination showcase of contemporary PR artists displaying their work, and a museum of indigenous culture as well as Spanish and other colonial artifacts. Sadly, while the indigenous weaponry on display was extremely well-crafted and deadly for it's intended purpose, it could not stand up to the pikes, halberds and swords of the Spanish conquistadores. If you want to appreciate the context and history of the places where you go to "re-create", this Museum does an excellent job telling the story of the island and the surrounding area. Great views to the north and east of the island of Culebra. (Someone told me you can see St. Croix from somewhere on Vieques. I don't know if it's from the Fort or not.)

I LOVED going to the Fortin conde de Mirasol Museum on the island of Vieques. though many of the articles were written in Spanish, there was a lot to absorb. Cool artifacts from the sugar industry and the Taino Indian tribe plus two rooms devoted to local Puerto Rican artists! Very nice presentation in a well restored fort!

I think everyone who visits vieques should visit this little gem. The history of the island is alive and well today, and the stories that are Vieques are remarkable. Beautiful art and architecture!

TIP: Its free (but give a donation).Nice historical location to go see, very well restored and great combination of modern art and historical artifacts on display. Worth 60 to 90 minutes of your time.

This was the last fort built in Puerto Rico, but was never finished. It has been through many evolutions and was derelict for a time. The renovations are pleasant and it is a combined museum and art gallery. There are currently two artist's work on exhibition, both very pleasing. The museum portion is small and interesting, but desperately needs some additional English translations. Given that many of their visitors' primary language is English, not to have more of the static exhibit's information accessible is really too bad. We were very interested to understand more of the history--frustrating.

This historic fort is run by a director who cares about the island and its people. He shows local talent, runs a radio station that is important to locals and keeps his program humming. I am a big fan.

The grounds of the fort are really well maintained and it's nice to walk around and check out the view. There are some artifacts like tools and carved stone and some weapons that are pretty interesting, I only wished there was more information. There was and extensive area of books that we didn't explore though.

The fort is impressive, all by its self, but the view from the top of the hill is worth the hike. The museum and art are very nice. It isn't El Morro, but still very worth a look. If you are on the island, you should put this on your itinerary.

Adds historical depth to our island experience.Staff is very friendly and helpful. Displayed Images and artifacts are very interesting and entertaining. Director Robert Rabin delivers a very professional experience for the curious traveler.Beautiful views !B&B

If you travel to Vieques I suggest that you visit the fort. When we went to trees were flowering with giant orange flowers which made perfect place for family pictures with the ocean in the back ground.

Beautiful place and excellent reading material for sale as well as he museum exhibit. Love the view!

During Oct 2014 there is a room withh all Ole painting that reveals Chaplin in diferent San Juan scenariosThe Museum is very nice decorated, clean and organized

I felt this museum added depth to the experience. It provided .examples of the native sea life, creatures you may expect to find snorkeling. I enjoyed the docent's information.

Nice small castle use for history and movie making. This beautiful piece of land and beach keep lots of secrets about what is to be part of the best. Clint Eastwood used this area and the Island of Vieques has to offer. Red and Blue beach are along with Camp Garcia the most beautiful beaches of the island. Visit by thousand each year. Great for camping, relaxing or enjoy a free sun tan. We call Vieques "La Isla Nena" little girl island for been one of the smallest island around Puerto Rico. Fun for all family members. Join us and take the ferry to meet Vieques and Culebras Island.

The views from the fort are the best on the island. Learn about Isla Nena's rich history in the museum. Thanks Robert Ravin for making our visit so special!