Croix-des-Bouquets, commune in Ouest department, Haiti
Croix-des-Bouquets is a small city in western Haiti located about 13 miles northeast of Port-au-Prince. Tightly packed houses line the streets where daily markets overflow with fresh produce and handmade goods, while workshops throughout the town showcase metal artisans at work shaping sculptures.
The town played an important role during Haiti's independence struggle and preserves monuments from that era. Following a major earthquake in the late 1700s, the population was relocated inland from the coast, establishing Croix-des-Bouquets in its current elevated position.
The name Croix-des-Bouquets comes from a legend about a cross where Spanish colonizers once left bouquets of flowers, reflecting the town's historical roots. Metal sculpture is woven into daily life here, with artisans throughout the streets crafting pieces from recycled oil drums that depict religious figures and scenes from local work.
The town sits in hilly terrain with warm, humid conditions, so visitors should bring light clothing and sun protection. Tap-taps (shared minibuses) and private cars link the town to Port-au-Prince on busy but passable roads that typically handle the route well.
Wyclef Jean, the globally recognized singer and musician, grew up in this town and developed his appreciation for music and arts here. The international reach of his work has created a unique cultural bridge connecting this modest town to the wider world of music and performance.
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