Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park

Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is a military fortress built on a steep volcanic hill in the Caribbean, featuring multiple levels of defensive structures and stone fortifications. The complex includes various bastions, casemates, and open areas arranged across the hilltop.

The fortress was designed by British military engineers in the late 1600s and developed over decades into one of the region's strongest defenses. It served as a crucial stronghold against French and Spanish attacks throughout the 1700s.

The fortress demonstrates British engineering skill and the labor of enslaved African people who built and maintained these extensive fortifications. Their stories and contributions are now part of the narratives shared at the site.

The park is accessible daily to visitors and the climb to the summit is moderate to steep, so sturdy shoes and water are recommended. Shaded areas and rest spots exist throughout, but sun exposure is significant, making sunscreen essential.

The fortress contains many cannons still aimed toward the horizon, remnants of its defensive purpose. From the citadel, visitors can see across to neighboring islands on clear days, revealing why this location was so strategically important.

Location: Saint Thomas Middle Island Parish

Inception: 1987

Part of: World Heritage Site

Website: http://brimstonehillfortress.org

GPS coordinates: 17.34700,-62.83600

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:31