National Palace

The National Palace is a government building made of white stone with a classical facade and a central dome, standing in the heart of Port-au-Prince. The complex spans several floors and includes ceremonial halls, reception rooms, and offices arranged around a large courtyard.

Architect Georges Baussan designed the palace after the 1912 fire, and completion came in 1920 as a symbol of the modern Haitian state. The 2010 earthquake destroyed large portions of the structure and altered the site's use for more than a decade.

The palace has served as the seat of Haitian presidents for a century and remains tied to the nation's most important political moments. Even after the severe damage in 2010, the building continues as a central reference point for state celebrations and national identity.

The grounds sit opposite Place L'Ouverture near Champ de Mars, with the main entrance visible from the public square. Visitors can view the exterior facade and surrounding gardens from a distance, as access to interior areas is limited.

The collapsed dome remained standing as a monument for several years after the 2010 quake, before gradual reconstruction efforts began. Photographs of the ruins spread worldwide and became a symbol of the country's challenges and hopes for renewal.

Location: Port-au-Prince

Inception: January 1920

Architects: Georges Baussan

Official opening: 1918

Architectural style: classical architecture

GPS coordinates: 18.54311,-72.33886

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23