1. fortified settlements or military posts, especially those established by the Spanish in colonial America
Usage: historical

Examples

• The Spanish established presidios along the California coast to protect their territory.
• These presidios served as both military bases and centers of colonial administration.
• The presidios were strategically located to defend against foreign invasion and native attacks.
• Many modern cities in the American Southwest grew from these early presidios.
• The presidios housed soldiers, their families, and civilian settlers.
• Archaeological excavations have revealed the layout of several colonial presidios.