Fort Santiago stands at the northern tip of Intramuros, overlooking the mouth of the Pasig River. Established in 1571 and rebuilt in stone in 1590, it served as the main citadel of the Walled City and the military headquarters of Spanish, British, American, and Japanese forces. The fort also became a prison for political prisoners, including Dr. Jose Rizal before his execution. Severely damaged during World War II, it was later restored and declared a Shrine of Freedom. Today, Fort Santiago is one of Manila's most visited heritage sites, preserving centuries of history and honoring the nation's heroes and wartime victims.
