Forte de San Lourenzo

The Forte de San Lourenzo, located in Goián (Tomiño), is a modern age fortification situated opposite the Portuguese village of Vila Nova de Cerveira, separated by the river Miño. Its history is linked to the neighboring Fortificación de Goián, built along the border of Galicia with Portugal. In 1663, the fortification of Goián was attacked and taken by the Portuguese army. Following the signed agreement in 1668, the authorities decided to build a new fort of smaller dimensions, the Forte de San Lourenzo, because the size of the Fortaleza de Goián was excessive for a garrison of soldiers.

Construction of the fort began in 1671 on the site where the Fortín da Barca once stood and was completed in 1673 during the reign of Carlos II. Improved relations between the territories led to the fort being little used, and it was subject to progressive abandonment until the 19th century. After its abandonment, it was subject to serious looting that affected the complex. At the end of the 20th century, it was the subject of a plan for recovery and enhancement.

The fort presents a square plan with defensive baluartes at the corners that complete the star-shaped form of the complex. Each baluarte had 3 garitas in each of the corners, which can be seen in some 17th-century plans. A defensive ditch surrounds the complex, except for a bridge that allows access to the main gate, which was originally closed with a drawbridge. An inscription of the foundation remains on this gate. Inside, the fort is divided into several structures: a chapel, barracks for 3 companies, an arms warehouse, the court, various warehouses, and a well. Currently, the defensive elements of the complex are well preserved.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons