Chorrera Tower

The Chorrera Tower, locally known as Torreón de la Chorrera, is located in Havana, Cuba. It sits west of the old town at the mouth of the Almendares River, formerly known as the La Chorrera River. Its full name is Torreón de Santa Dorotea de Luna de la Chorrera.

The history of Chorrera Tower is closely connected to that of Cojímar Tower.

The idea of fortifying the mouths of the La Chorrera and Cojímar rivers, situated west and east of Havana's historic center, dates back to the early 17th century. Governor Don Pedro Valdés proposed this project to the Spanish Crown to defend Havana from potential English attacks. However, after the war with England ended, the project was abandoned.

In 1633, Captain-General Marquess de Cadereyta and Admiral Carlos de Ibarra visited Havana to assess the condition of the forts La Real Fuerza, La Punta, and El Morro. They both recommended building the Chorrera and Cojímar Towers because these locations at the river mouths were ideal for preventing enemy landings, especially by the Dutch. Troops landing there could surprise Havana's defenses, as the three main fortresses couldn’t cover these points.

Governor Francisco Riaño Gamboa was ordered in 1635 by royal decree to build the towers. Construction did not begin until 1646, prompted by fears of Dutch attacks, who were asserting naval dominance in American waters, and by the efforts of his successor, Don Álvaro de Luna y Sarmiento.

In 1762, several English ships anchored at the mouth of the La Chorrera River, needing drinking water. From there, they fired cannons into Chorrera Tower, nearly destroying it.

Later, the tower was rebuilt as a rectangular casemate with two floors, armed with four heavy cannons and two lighter ones, and staffed by a garrison of 28 soldiers.

I heard that today, the Chorrera Tower houses a well-known restaurant. However, it was closed during my visit, and I wasn't allowed entry. Nevertheless, a nice building.

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