Fernando de Noronha, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a rich and complex history that dates back to its discovery in 1503 by the Portuguese explorer **Américo Vespúcio**. Named after the financier Fernão de Loronha, the island played a strategic role in the Atlantic, controlled at different times by the Portuguese, Dutch, and French due to its valuable location.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Portuguese fortified the island with several military structures, including the **Forte dos Remédios**, whose ruins still stand as a reminder of its colonial past. Later, in the 20th century, Fernando de Noronha served as a penal colony and later as a military base during World War II, hosting both Brazilian and American troops.

Today, visitors can explore its historical sites, from old cannons and fortifications to the charming **Vila dos Remédios**, the island’s cultural and historical center. Blending history with breathtaking nature, Fernando de Noronha offers a unique glimpse into Brazil’s past while remaining a paradise of conservation and beauty.