Haiti, Caribbean nation on Hispaniola island, Republic of Haiti
Description
Haiti is a nation on the western side of Hispaniola island in the Caribbean, made up of rugged mountain ranges that run throughout the territory. Valleys and plains lie between the mountains, while two peninsulas extend into the sea, creating a long, winding coastline.
History
Independence came in 1804 after an uprising by formerly enslaved people against French colonial rule, creating the first Black republic in the world. Earlier French settlers had called the territory Saint-Domingue and made it one of the most profitable colonies before the revolution ended that order.
Culture
The country takes its name from the original Taino word Ayiti, meaning mountainous land, which accurately describes the terrain. Kompa music plays from radios and at gatherings, while hand-painted murals and colorful tap-taps, converted trucks used for transport, fill the streets.
Practical
The best time to visit is between November and March when rainfall is lighter and temperatures are comfortable. Before traveling, check current safety advisories, as conditions can shift after natural events.
Did you know?
The Citadelle Laferrière in the north, a massive mountaintop fortress from the post-independence era, ranks among the largest fortifications in the Western Hemisphere. Its huge stone walls were built without mortar and tower above surrounding valleys as a testament to early defense efforts.
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Citadelle Laferrière
49.7 km
Labadee
72.9 km
National Palace
66.5 km
Sans-Souci Palace
53.7 km
Le Marron Inconnu
66.2 km
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
65.8 km
Pic la Selle
95.6 km
Haitian National Pantheon Museum
66.5 km
Royal Chapel of Milot
53.7 km
Péligre Dam
42.8 km
Fort Jacques
74.6 km
National History Park
49.7 km
Marie-Jeanne cave
208.1 km
Marché en Fer
65.5 km
Pic Macaya
195 km
Holy Trinity Cathedral, Port-au-Prince
66.1 kmPic Macaya National Park
195.1 km
Navassa Island Light
291.9 km
Port-au-Prince Haiti Temple
68.7 km
Navassa Island National Wildlife Refuge
291.3 km
Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral, Cap-Haïtien
71.1 kmThree Bays Protected Area
82.5 km
Lake Péligre
45.6 km
National Library of Haiti
66.1 km
La Visite National Park
97.9 km
Saut-Mathurine
172.8 kmFort Riviere
42.4 km
Parc historique de la Canne à Sucre
65 km
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