The fortress underwent a massive reconstruction in 1846 to change its military appearance into a palatial facade. The construction was authorized by Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor, as a defensive measure against the attacks from Carib Indians and rivaling European powers of the time. La Fortaleza was the first defensive fortification built in San Juan, and the first of a series of military installations, which included the Fort San Felipe del Morro and the Fort San Cristóbal, designed to protect the city. During the 1640 reconstruction, the chapel of Santa Catalina, then located outside the walls, was demolished and integrated into the complex, which ensued a new name by which it is currently known, Palacio de Santa Catalina. Built between 15 to defend the harbor of San Juan, it is the oldest executive mansion in the New World. La Fortaleza, or the Fortress, is the current official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. The chapel is open to publish on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00. Afterwards, permission was granted to build the Catholic chapel and many festivals have been held, over the years, at the location to celebrate the miracle. In a famous book about Puerto Rican legends, it says that the horse was killed but the rider lived. Inside the chapel there is a famous painting called El Milagro ("The Miracle").Īccording to the legend, during a horse race that was taking place on the street where the chapel is located, a young rider and his horse took a bad fall and the rider went over the city wall but was miraculously saved. The chapel is a major tourist attraction in San Juan. The chapel with its belfry is located in the Old San Juan Historic District in the western section of San Juan Islet, at the end of Cristo Street, now a pedestrian walkway. Most of the articles located at its altar are from 1753. Built in the 18th century, the structure has become a cultural icon of Puerto Rico and was saved from demolition in the 20th century. Capilla del Cristo (Chapel of Christ), is a small chapel located in the Old San Juan Historic District of Puerto Rico.
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