The Peniche Fortress, located in the municipality of Peniche in the Leiria District of Portugal, is a 16th century fortress that has stood the test of time. It was built on the site of the former Castle of Atouguia da Baleia in 1558 and has served many different functions throughout its 500+ year existence, most notably a political prison during the Estado Novo regime. The impressively shaped fortification encompasses two hectares of land, surrounded by walls with upper and lower parts and impressive turrets. The Peniche Fortress has seen almost it all, from English, French and Barbary pirates to escaped prisoners and both French and British troops. After being converted into a tuberculosis sanatorium and a returning home for African immigrants in 1977, the Peniche Fortress today stands as a reminder of the turbulent times of Portugal's past.