The fort was built in 1629 on the site of a previous artillery battery, erected after the Battle of Macau with the Dutch in 1622, with the function of defending the inner anchorage.

[3] Its main platform measured 113m x 42m, housing, a cistern with a capacity of 3,000 liters and facilities for the commander and 60 soldiers.

[1][4] Like other defensive structures, it fell into disrepair over the centuries until, during World War II, the old cannons were sold to buy rice to feed refugees from Hong Kong and China.

Visitors can visit the chapel inside, where the image of the Virgin and patron-saint São Tiago stand out.

A popular folk story is associated with the statue of São Tiago, as it is said that it would leave at night to patrol, being found in its place with muddy boots by morning.