This city is located on an island in the Caribbean Sea. It occupies the entire territory and is a part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago. The island was discovered in 1502 by Christopher Columbus. Right after the discovery of Fort De France the Europeans have started living here. First buildings appeared on the territory of the city in the 17th century. However, they have been destroyed several times and have been restored literally from ashes. During its several centuries long history the city has changed its name several times. It was named Fort Saint-Louis, Fort Royal, Fort de Republica. It was the beginning of the 19th century when the city received its present name. During the period of industrialization the island was known as the center of tobacco and cotton production. Here have been always gathered rich harvests of pineapples and bananas. Another specialty of the region is high-quality rum.
Amazingly beautiful unspoiled nature, picturesque sandy beaches and tropical bushes have quickly started attracting tourists, so starting from the 80s of the 20th century Fort De France has also become a famous center of recreation. Beautiful mountains and volcanoes attract active rest fans as here you can make a multi-day excursion to beautiful foothills. The rise to Mont Pelee Mountain is one of the most popular routes. The slopes of the mountain are fairly flat, so you do not need any special training to climb it. The northern part of the island is notable for its waterfalls, mountain rivers, and impenetrable rainforests.
Old Fort Saint-Louis is an important historic landmark, situated on the coast. It is still used as a military base. The history of the fort dates back to 1638. Back then, a small wooden fort was built on the coast to protect the harbor. Already in 1666, they decided to strengthen it. The most extensive transformations took place during the period of the Dutch war. The ancient fort has been bearing its present name since 1814. Today, its greater part is publicly accessible.
Saint-Louis Fort-de-France Cathedral is a historic monument of national importance. It represents a unique masterpiece of architecture. Construction of the cathedral took place in the 19th century. The French King personally monitored the execution of the building works. Today, the exterior of the cathedral miraculously combines the features of the Romanesque, Gothic and Byzantine style. The church has a gorgeous interior, as well. From the moment of its construction, a luxurious marble altar and a carved pulpit made of precious wood remain the main decoration of the cathedral.
The city is famous for the abundance of wonderful parks. Lovers of nature will definitely appreciate it there. One of the most beautiful is La Sawan Park. It is distinguished by a variety of picturesque palm avenues and beautiful fountains. There are some concert venues, so various entertainment events take place there regularly.
No less beautiful is Flower Park. It will surprise with a variety of ornamental plants and flowers. This park is known to many travelers due to the nearby markets, where they sell popular local products and interesting souvenirs.
A special route - Route de la Tras - has been developed for fans of long walks. It passes through the most picturesque outskirts of the city. Feast your eyes on beautiful tropical forests and rocky cliffs while walking. Some areas of the route offer a magnificent panoramic view of the city.
Lovers of nature should visit the Balata Botanical Garden with dozens of different exotic plants in it. The garden is decorated with cascades of artificial waterfalls. Its most unusual object is the old Balata church. Botanical Garden is well equipped for relaxation. You can move slowly among exotic plants and rest in the shade of branchy trees.
Sightseeing in Martinique: things to see
Many interesting excursion programmes can be found in the city of Saint Pierre that was the capital of the country until 1902. Currently, the city hosts more than ten different cultural centres, each of which is unique and unforgettable. The most famous sights of the island include the Museum of Volcanology and House Museum of Paul Gauguin. The most famous destinations of Saint Pierre suburbs are l'Anse Couleuvre Cascade and ancient villages of Le Precheur and Bellville. A big fish market remains the main sight of Grand Riviere. In addition to delicious seafood, one can buy here fishing tools, rent a boat and move to the nearest fishing spot to test the newly purchased rod and try one’s luck in fishing.
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