Fuerte San Cristóbal is a small but handsomely restored colonial fort on a hill at the eastern edge of town. Built in the late 18th century to protect Gracias from possible attack, the fort never saw combat but has become the town's most recognisable landmark. The walk up takes about ten minutes on a cobblestone path and is rewarded with panoramic views over the valley and town.
The interior displays period weapons, maps, and a small exhibit on Honduran colonial history. Below the fort on the same hill, a cemetery contains some of the most elaborate graves in the region, including the tomb of Juan Lindo, a former president of both El Salvador and Honduras, who is buried here. Admission is a few lempiras; it opens daily.