It is a fortress on the coast of the city of Santiago de Cuba about 6 miles (10 km) southwest of the city center overlooking the bay. It was designed in the early 17th century by Batista Antonelli, also known as Juan Battista Antonelli, a member of a family of military engineers from Milan on behalf of the city's governor. Pedro de la Roca de Borja, as a defense against a pirate raid. Simple and beautiful landmark with a great view of the bay.