Destination / Historical monument

Haiti: Discovering Fort Picolet

Haiti, with its rich historical heritage, is home to several gems that bear witness to the country’s fascinating past. Among these is Fort Picolet, a vital part of the French colonial defensive system, which stands majestically on the coast. This site, steeped in history, offers visitors a captivating dive into the island’s tumultuous past. Fort Picolet was designed as a strategic fortress, composed of two superimposed batteries, a parapet walk and a wall that runs along the coast. Construction work began in 1736 under the direction of M. de Larnage and was completed in 1741 by the engineer M. du Coudreau. This imposing structure bears witness to the architectural know-how of the French colonial era. The fort played a crucial role during the French expedition of February 1802, under the command of General Henry Christophe. Controlling the passage of large tonnage boats between Pointe Picolet and the Grand-Mouton reefs, Fort Picolet temporarily blocked access to the port of Cape Town for the squadron led by Captain General Leclerc. This historic episode marked the beginning of fierce resistance, with General Christophe proclaiming from the ramparts of the fort his famous words: "If you have the force with which you threaten me, I will lend you all the resistance that characterizes a general". Unfortunately, part of the surrounding wall was destroyed during the explosion of the powder magazine. Despite this incident, Fort Picolet has survived over the centuries, testifying to the resilience of its architecture and its historical importance. Today, Fort Picolet stands out as an essential tourist destination in Haiti. Visitors can stroll through its historic corridors, soak up its history-filled atmosphere and admire the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Preservation efforts have been made to restore parts of the fort, providing visitors with an immersive experience into the nation’s past.

Haïti : Citadelle la Ferrière

Citadelle La Ferrière, also known as Citadelle Henry, is one of Haiti’s most iconic structures. It is located in the mountains in the north of the country, near the town of Milot. The Citadel was built in the early 19th century during the reign of Henri Christophe, a former slave who became an important military and political leader after the Haitian Revolution, which resulted in Haiti’s independence in 1804. The Citadelle La Ferrière was built to serve as a military fortification and refuge in the event of foreign invasion. It is a massive structure, with thick walls, cannons and watchtowers. The Citadel is perched on a mountain, making it a strategic location for defense. The architecture of the Citadel is impressive, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical importance and unique architecture. Visitors today can explore the Citadel and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Haiti, offering visitors a glimpse into the nation’s fascinating history and cultural heritage.

Haiti: A visit to a small town in the municipality of Cerca-la-Source

I am in the municipality of Cerca-la-Source in the central department of Haiti. I am happy to join you to sell our beloved country with a better image. Thank you Ing Appolon for the invitation. In this small town, farmers plant a lot of cabbages, peppers, carrots and leeks which can supply 3 departments of the country. The blood of the people has not yet found the presence of the central state.

Haïti : Kenscoff et Furcy

Kenscoff and Furcy are two communes located in Haiti, in the West department, on the outskirts of the capital Port-au-Prince. Here is some information about these two places: 1. Kenscoff: - Kenscoff is a mountain commune located about 10 kilometers south of Port-au-Prince. It is known for its cool climate due to its altitude, making it a popular destination to escape the heat of the capital. - The Kenscoff region is also renowned for its agricultural operations, particularly the cultivation of vegetables and flowers. The fertile soil and favorable climate make it an important place of agricultural production for the region. - Kenscoff also offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Caribbean Sea. 2. Furcy: - Furcy is a small town located near Kenscoff, in the mountains of western Haiti. It is a place even higher in altitude than Kenscoff, thus offering cooler temperatures. - The Furcy region is also known for its natural beauty and mountainous landscapes. It is a favorite place for hiking and ecotourism, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding nature. - Many visitors to Port-au-Prince travel to Furcy to escape the heat of the city and enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. These two mountain communes are popular destinations for those looking to escape the heat and hustle and bustle of the Haitian capital, while enjoying the area’s natural beauty and learning about local agriculture.

Haïti : Parc National Macaya

Macaya National Park is a national park located in Haiti, on the Tiburon Peninsula, on the western tip of the island. It is one of the largest and most biodiverse national parks in the country. The park takes its name from Macaya Mountain, which is the highest mountain on the peninsula and rises to approximately 2,347 meters above sea level. Macaya National Park is famous for its rich biological diversity, home to many plant and animal species endemic to Haiti. The park encompasses diverse ecosystems, including montane forests, cloud forests, rivers, waterfalls and karst formations. It is of great importance for the conservation of Haitian flora and fauna, some of these species being threatened with extinction.

Haïti : Héros de Vertières

The Heroes of Vertières are emblematic figures in the history of Haïti because of their role in the fight for the country’s independence. Their most famous action was the Battle of Vertières, which took place on November 18, 1803. It was during this battle that Haitian forces, under the command of General Jean-Jacques Dessalines, managed to defeat French troops. , thus marking the end of the French colonial yoke and the proclamation of the independence of Haïti on January 1, 1804. The Heroes of Vertières, of which Dessalines is one of the most important figures, are widely honored in Haïti for their role in the fight for independence and the creation of the first independent black republic in the world. Their status is celebrated every year on November 18 in Haïti during Vertières Heroes Day. This day commemorates the victory at Vertières and pays tribute to historical figures who played a crucial role in the liberation of Haiti.

Haïti : MUPANAH

The MUPANAH, or Haitian National Pantheon Museum, is a museum located in Haiti, more precisely in Port-au-Prince. This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Haiti, and it plays a vital role in preserving the country’s cultural heritage. MUPANAH houses an extensive collection of objects, documents, and artifacts relating to Haiti’s history, including works of art, manuscripts, ancient weapons, Voodoo ceremonial objects, and much more. The museum aims to trace the country’s history since its struggle for independence, highlighting key personalities and events that shaped the Haitian nation. This museum is an important venue for education and the preservation of Haiti’s cultural identity, and it attracts visitors from around the world interested in the history and culture of this Caribbean country. MUPANAH also plays a significant role in promoting national pride and unity in Haïti by celebrating the nation’s achievements and recalling the courage and determination of its people during the struggle for independence, which led to the birth of Haïti as the first independent state in Latin America.

Haïti : Moulin Sur Mer

Moulin Sur Mer, also known as Moulin sur Mer Beach Resort, is a popular tourist destination in Haiti. It is located on the Côte des Arcadins, a beautiful stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Gonâve. The complex is located approximately 45 kilometers north of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Moulin Sur Mer is renowned for its picturesque setting, with palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters and lush tropical vegetation. The resort occupies the grounds of a former sugar plantation and houses a historic colonial mansion, which adds a touch of charm to the property. Visitors to Moulin Sur Mer can enjoy a range of activities including swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and beach volleyball. The resort also has a swimming pool for guests to relax in. Additionally, walking tours are available for those wishing to explore the historical aspects of the property. The resort offers accommodation in the form of bungalows, hotel rooms and suites. It caters to both tourists and locals looking for a quiet seaside escape. The combination of natural beauty, historic ambiance and recreational activities makes Moulin Sur Mer a popular choice for those looking for a beachside retreat in Haiti.

Haïti : Campus Henry-Christophe de Limonade (CHCL)

The Campus Henry-Christophe de Limonade (CHCL), located in northern Haiti, is a higher education institution that honors Henri Christophe, a key figure in the country’s independence. It is closely linked to the Université Roi Henri Christophe (URHC), a renowned public university. CHCL offers a wide range of academic programs covering various fields of study, including social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences, humanities, computer sciences, and many others. Like many other higher education establishments, its mission is to provide quality education to its students and to contribute to the development of Haitian society. CHCL is committed to training the next generation of professionals and leaders while fostering the growth and evolution of the nation. The legacy of Henri Christophe, as a historical figure of capital importance in the history of Haiti, gives the Henry-Christophe de Limonade Campus a special meaning, recalling the importance of education and knowledge for the progress of the nation. CHCL remains a pillar of higher education in the region, providing essential learning and research opportunities for Haitian students.

Haïti : Cathédrale de Milot

Milot Cathedral, also known as Saint-Jacques Cathedral, is a historic church located in Milot, a small town in the Nord department, Haiti. This cathedral is a remarkable example of French colonial architecture and was built in the early 19th century, during the period of French colonization of the island of Santo Domingo, which is now Haiti. Milot Cathedral is famous for its neo-Gothic architecture, with pointed arches, colorful stained glass windows and elaborate architectural features. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with magnificent wooden carvings and an ornate altar. Milot Cathedral is a popular tourist site in Haïti due to its historical and architectural significance. It is part of the site of the Palais Sans-Souci, another historic monument located nearby, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.

Haïti : Pointe Sable

Pointe Sable is a coastal region in Haïti that is characterized by beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters. It is a popular location for tourism due to its stunning natural scenery. The southern coast of Haïti is renowned for its beaches, and Pointe Sable is one of the top destinations for those looking to enjoy the sea, sun and water activities. It is located near the town of Les Cayes, which is an important town in the region.

Haïti : Côte des Arcadins

The Côte des Arcadins is a tourist destination in Haiti, located on the west coast of the country, along the Gulf of Gonâve, about an hour’s drive from the capital, Port-au-Prince. This coastal region is known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical climate, making it a popular destination for visitors looking for sun, sea, and relaxation. The Côte des Arcadins offers a variety of accommodation options, including resorts, private villas and hostels. Many establishments offer water activities, such as scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, and fishing. It is a popular location for weddings and special events because of its picturesque setting. In addition to its seaside attractions, the Côte des Arcadins region allows visitors to discover Haitian culture through its cuisine, music and local festivals. It is recommended to try Haitian cuisine, which is influenced by African, Creole and French traditions. Music and dance are also central to Haitian culture, and you can enjoy performances of kompa music and other local styles.