Built in the seventeenth century this building still keeps many of its original features such as the loopholes from wher archers shot their arrows against invaders and looters, and the basement where the slaves slept.

The Fazenda Engenho D'água with almost 300 acres of land was an important producer of sugar and brandy as well as coffee, rice and vegetables.

In spite of being in private hands (not open to visitors) its preservation is guaranteed by the Historic Preservation Act of 1945.