Fort San Andres in Romblon
Apart from the abundant marble deposits, Romblon has a rich history and is worth visiting heritage sites dating back to the Spanish era, such as Fort San Andres. If you’re looking for things to do in Romblon, Fort San Andres is a must-see for its impressive architecture with over three-century history.
So if traveling back in time piques your interest, read on to learn more about Fort San Andres in Romblon and why visiting this historic site is a must when in town!
History & Architecture
Constructed in 1644 back in the Spanish colonization, Fort San Andres is a part of the Twin Forts in Romblon built to protect the town from Dutch and Muslim piracy during the Dutch Revolt. The construction was looked after by an Augustinian Recollect Agustin de San Pedro, referred to as El Padre Capitan.
The site formerly consists of Fort Santiago, which is now in ruins, and Fort San Andres is the only remnant of Twin Forts in Romblon. The fortifications were built on top of San Antonio Hill and Calvary Hill, featuring an overlooking view of the town of Romblon.
Furthermore, the structure was constructed by locals using locally sourced coral and limestone and completed around 1650. Then, the twin forts named were Fuerza de San Andres (Saint Andrew) and Fuerza de Santiago (Saint James the Great).
Currently, Fort San Andres lies on top of San Antonio Hill between Barangay Capaclan and Barangay II, overlooking the town and its surrounding harbor. The quadrilateral fort features four turrets in every corner with a total lot area of 290 square meters.
In addition, the fort has four walls, and the tower consists of parapets and three embrasures for firing cannons. The façade is on the southern wall with a wooden door as the main entrance, while the center of the fort features four stone columns designed to support thatched roofs.
Restoration of the Fort San Andres
In 2013, the Twin Forts of Romblon was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines, with other historic sites in town. But before its designation, Fort San Andres went through extensive restoration in 2012 with the efforts of the local government and the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA)
The restoration of Fort San Andres is a P2 million project that aims to rehabilitate its architectural features. It involves replacing the lacking coral stone in the interior and exterior walls, removing earth fill, installing the drainage system, wall foundation reinforcement, rip rapping, and turrets and fort upper section rehabilitation.
Exploring the Fort San Andres
Considering the location of this historic site and its proximity to Romblon port, Fort San Andres is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset and see Romblon in its full glory. From the lively town and luscious vegetation to its surrounding harbor, there’s no better way to catch sight of the stunning beauty of Romblon than at Fort San Andres!
Fort San Andres is also an exemplar of Spanish architecture, so snap your photos and feel like back in the 17th century! Also, there is no entrance fee at the fort. But a donation is ideal for the upkeep cost.
How to get to Fort San Andres
Fort San Andres is accessible through Sabang Road or at a stone staircase in Termopilas Street. It’s only a 5 to 10-minute walk from Romblon port, and it will take less than an hour to explore the entire vicinity.
Hi there, I’m writing to share my delightful experience at Fort San Andres in Romblon.
If you’re considering a visit, let me tell you—you’re in for a treat! The fort itself is nestled atop a hill and appreciating its age-old stone walls is like stepping back in time. You’ll feel like part of the island’s rich history with every footstep climbing the hill.
Now don’t worry about that climb! While it’s not a walk in the park, it’s part of the fun. And what a reward waiting at the top! You’ll witness an incredible panoramic view of the lovely town of Romblon, with eye-catching clusters of traditional houses, the local port, and the gorgeous, endless ocean—simply breathtaking!
The natural green cloak of foliage that surrounds the fort is the icing on the cake, giving the place a peaceful aura that makes the hectic bustle of life seem miles away.
Fort San Andres is a testament to the island’s resilience, stamped into its every corner. This warm, welcoming beacon of history spells charm like no other place I’ve visited. What really stood my hairs on end was feeling so connected to our shared past while gazing out at the horizon from this captivating fort. I bet you’ll feel the same!
subrang ganda ra sa ibabaw ah, tanaw gid ang view ng romblon port <3
subrang bait ng tourist guide sa fort san andres subrang aliw din sa mga information at kwela kausap ni manong.
Lovely Island romblon
possible ba makaakyat yong car sa itaas ng fort san andres?
Hi Ramon, yes, a car can possibly climb to the top of Fort San Andreas.