San Juan de Ulúa is one of the most enigmatic places in Mexico. Built in the 1500s, the former Spanish fort and prison is steeped in horror stories of torture, suffering, and spirits. Here we delve into its history and explore the many paranormal activities reported around the ruins.
Horror Story of San Juan de Ulúa, Veracruz
, Mexico
In the shadows of San Juan de Ulúa's dark and mysterious fortress, something sinister stirs. As the locals hide away in fear, stories of strange happenings and strange creatures spread throughout the city. Local superstition holds that a powerful, ancient spirit known as La Llorona guards the castle's grounds.
Legend says that every night the spirit appears as a beautiful maiden in flowing white robes, her long black hair echoing the waves of the sea. Legend also tells that anyone unfortunate enough to witness La Llorona's ghostly form will be cursed until the day they die.
Those brave enough to enter the castle's grounds often tell of unexplainable sights. Shrieks and wails can be heard, and objects appear to move on their own. Many have even reported seeing La Llorona herself standing atop the wall of the castle, watching the waters or beckoning people to enter her domain.
The citizens of San Juan de Ulúa are rooted in fear. Every night is a wake of terror and uncertainty, and no one knows when La Llorona's curse may strike next.
History & Information of San Juan de Ulúa, Veracruz
San Juan de Ulúa, known in English as Old San Juan, is an ancient fortress and more recently prison and port on the Gulf Coast of Mexico in Veracruz. It is situated on an island of the same name and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. San Juan de Ulúa was originally built by the Spanish in 1530 on the island of San Juan de Ulúa to protect the port from pirate attacks. It was designed to be a fortress, as it includes walls, dungeons, watchtowers, and other defensive features. The fortress was a crucial stronghold in defending Spanish interests in Mexico, as it protected the trade routes that passed through Veracruz.
The fortress has seen many battles and changes of ownership over the centuries. It was taken by the British during the War of Jenkins' Ear in 1742, before being recaptured by the Spanish in 1748. In the 19th century the fortress was converted into a prison and abandoned. The prison played an important role in Mexico’s turbulent history, as it housed many political prisoners, including Emiliano Zapata. The prison was finally abandoned in 1902.
San Juan de Ulúa has been used for multiple purposes, from its intended use as a fortress to a prison and even as a port. After being abandoned in 1902, the fortress fell into ruin and was put under the custody of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). In 2000, it was named part of the National Heritage Plan, which preserves and restores Mexico’s most important historical sites. Since then, restoration efforts have been underway, and San Juan de Ulúa has become a tourist attraction. Today visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress and the underground dungeon.
In 2016, San Juan de Ulúa was added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) World Heritage List, recognizing its importance as an essential part of Mexican culture and history.
Paranomial Activity of San Juan de Ulúa, Veracruz
San Juan de Ulúa, located in the Gulf of Mexico in the port of Veracruz, Mexico, is one of the most important historical and cultural places in Mexico. Its rich history has attracted tourists from around the world since the 16th century. Throughout history, San Juan de Ulúa has played a prominent role in the country’s growth and development. It was a major port of entry for Europeans demanding for its goods, an important trading post for slave and goods, the prisons for the native and Spanish royalty, and later serves as a military defense against pirate attacks. Today, San Juan de Ulúa is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a unique experience with its well-preserved historical and architectural features.
The most popular activity at San Juan de Ulúa is a guided tour of the area’s fort and the other attractions. During the tour, visitors can explore the remains of several fortifications including the castle, fort, and ramparts. At the center of the fortification is the central castle, which served as the primary form of military defense and features a battery of cannons. Visitors can also explore the ramparts, which enclose the entire area. The ramparts were originally built to protect against attack and are now home to a museum dedicated to the military history of the area.
In addition to the tours, another popular activity at San Juan de Ulúa is the lighthouse. The lighthouse is built on an islet off the shore and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can access the top of the lighthouse and walk the balcony. From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy a unique view of San Juan de Ulúa and the area’s diverse marine life.
San Juan de Ulúa is also home to the San Juan de Ulúa Museum, which features a wide variety of artifacts related to the area’s history and culture. The museum showcases artifacts from the colonial period, as well as the contemporary period, and offers educational and interactive exhibits. There are also special events held throughout the year, including guided tours and cultural events.
San Juan de Ulúa is one of the most fascinating historical sites in Mexico and a place that many visitors to Veracruz cannot miss. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique activities, it’s easy to see why San Juan de Ulúa remains one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations.
Experience of people & Reviews of San Juan de Ulúa, Veracruz
People who have visited San Juan de Ulúa, Veracruz often report that the experience is like nothing else. The historic fortifications have been standing since the 17th century and offer a unique and impressive backdrop for exploring the area. People who have visited often remark about the overwhelming sense of history that is present on the island. They talk of wandering through the fortifications and being taken in by the tall stone walls, the cannons, and the sea. Activities such as the lighthouse visit or snorkeling trips are also popular.
The reviews of San Juan de Ulúa are overwhelmingly positive. People describe it as a must-see destination on any vacation to Veracruz. In particular, the historical and cultural aspects of the site are often highlighted. People also note the variety of activities that can be enjoyed in and around the fortifications, from exploring the ruins to swimming or relaxing on the beach. Several reviews also provide tips and advice about making the most of the journey to San Juan de Ulúa.
Amidst the beautiful scenery, this place promises you the most haunted experience. FAQ'S of San Juan de Ulúa, Veracruz
Q: What is San Juan de Ulúa?
A: San Juan de Ulúa is a fort located in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Veracruz, Mexico. It was originally built as a prison to house political prisoners and criminals during the colonial period.
Q: How long has San Juan de Ulúa been active?
A: San Juan de Ulúa has been active since 1568. It is now a national park and a popular tourist destination.
Q: What can I do at San Juan de Ulúa?
A: San Juan de Ulúa offers many attractions, including a prison museum, an aquarium, and a viewpoint from which visitors can observe the gulf. There are also opportunities for fishing, snorkeling and diving.
Q: Is there an admission fee to enter San Juan de Ulúa?
A: Yes, there is an admission fee to enter the fort, which is 70 pesos per person. For the aquarium, the fee is 30 pesos per person. For combined admission to both the fort and the aquarium, the fee is 90 pesos per person.
After sunset, entries are restricted at this haunted place.