Fort-de-France

Fort-de-France was already the seat of government before the 1902 eruption destroyed Saint-Pierre, but only afterwards became the island's main city. The centre is compact: La Savane, the park facing the bay with the fort beyond it, the Saint-Louis cathedral with its iron frame and spire, the covered spice market, and the Schoelcher library a short walk away. Streets behind climb steeply into the hills. Ferries cross the bay to Trois-Îlets, which is the pleasant way to arrive.

History

Before 1635 the area was known as Iguanacaera, "Iguana Island" in the Kari'nja language. First called Fort-Royal, the town became Fort-La-République during the French Revolution and settled as Fort-de-France in the 19th century; the old name lives on in the Creole "Foyal", and its people are still the Foyalais. The town hall was completed in 1901 (Wikipedia, Fort-de-France).

Highlights

• La Savane - the park along the waterfront facing the bay and the fort.
• The Saint-Louis cathedral - the iron-framed church with its tall spire.
• The covered market - the spice and produce market in the centre.
• The bay ferries - the crossings to Trois-Îlets from the waterfront.

When to go

December to April is drier and more comfortable for walking. Mornings are best for the market. Sundays close most of the centre.

Good to know

Traffic and parking in the centre are difficult and the ferry is the better approach. Parts of the centre are run down and quiet after dark. Cruise days crowd the main streets.

Nearby

The Schoelcher Library is in the centre, and Fort Saint-Louis is on the waterfront.

Key facts