Acapulco's fort was built in 1616 to protect the city's lucrative harbor and wealthy citizens from pirate attacks. Although it was badly damaged by an earthquake in 1776, it was entirely restored by the end of that century. Today the fort houses the excellent Museo Histórico de Acapulco Bilingual videos and text explain exhibits tracing the city's history from the first pre-Hispanic settlements 3,000 years ago through the exploits of pirates like Sir Francis Drake, the era of the missionaries, and up to Mexico's independence from Spain in 1821. There are also displays of precious silks, Talavera tiles, exquisitely hand-tooled wooden furniture, and delicate china. A good multimedia show in Spanish (an English version requires a minimum of 15 people) on the history of Acapulco is staged outside the museum grounds on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 8 PM for $10 per person. A visit to the fort is a wonderful way to learn about and appreciate the history of this old port city. Calle Hornitos and Calle Morelos, Old Acapulco. 744/482-3828. $3.25. Tues.-Sun. 9:30-6.