Forte Duque de Caxias, also known as Forte do Leme, crowns a hilltop in Rio de Janeiro's Leme district with panoramic views spanning Copacabana and Sugarloaf Mountain. Originally constructed between 1776 and 1779 as Forte da Vigia to guard against Spanish invasions, it was renamed multiple times—Forte do Leme in 1895 and finally Forte Duque de Caxias in 1935. The restored fort now functions as a memorial showcasing exhibits on Brazil's military history, accessible via a twenty-minute walk to the summit of Morro do Leme. Open daily except Mondays with free admission on Tuesdays, this well-preserved historical landmark serves both history enthusiasts and visitors seeking spectacular coastal vistas.
