The fortress is open to the public and houses the Piracy Museum (Museo de la Piratería).

The tower was commissioned by Sancho de Herrera on the orders of Lancelotto Malocello.

The fortress was intended to serve as a safe refuge for the inhabitants of Teguise (then the island’s capital) during enemy raids, especially pirate attacks.

[3] The fortress lost its significance in the 17th century when a massive fortification was built in the port of Arrecife.

In 1899, a military pigeon loft was established there, and in 1913, the fortress was handed over to the municipality of Teguise.