This uncompleted Civil War-era East Martello fort is the best-preserved example of the Martello style of military architecture in the country. It was designed after the nearly-impregnable coastal Italian Martello watchtowers, featuring 8-foot-thick granite walls in the outer bulwark and inner citadel; today its casements, citadel and courtyard house an impressive collection of
Key West artifacts and historical records, as well military memorabilia.
Highlights include an 80-year-old playhouse in the garden, and outstanding views of the Atlantic coast from atop the central tower. Galleries contain the state's largest collections of painted woodcarvings and drawings by Mario Sanchez, and the scrap metal sculpture of Stanley Papio, both internationally-renowned local folk artists. Rental of the grounds and facility is available.
