Blackbeard's Castle

Skytsborg
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
U.S. National Historic Landmark
Location:	Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands
Coordinates:	18°20′37.83″N 64°55′46.53″W
Built:	1679
Architect:	Unknown
Architectural style:	Other
Governing body:	Private
NRHP Reference#:	91001844
Significant dates
Added to NRHP:	December 20, 1991
Designated NHL:	October 12, 1994

Blackbeard's Castle is one of five National Historic Landmarks in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is located in the city of Charlotte Amalie, on the island of St. Thomas. Built in 1679 by the Danes as a watchtower to protect the harbor, it was originally called Skytsborg Tower (meaning gun tower). It is located at the highest point on Government Hill.

Danish soldiers used Skytsborg as a vantage point to spot enemy ships. It is not known what year Skytsborg Tower took on the name of Blackbeard's Castle, but the infamous Edward Teach, commonly known as Blackbeard, did sail the Caribbean waters in the early 18th century. It has become part of the lore of the island that he used the tower as a lookout for his own purposes of piracy. It was the centerpiece of a private residence for many years, but now is surrounded by a small hotel (The Inn at Blackbeard's Castle), a restaurant and a pool.

The restaurant was closed in 2007. There is now a snack bar which is open when the grounds are open for tours.

External links

• Official website: National Historic Landmark Program