Fort Louis

Fort Louis is a stone fortification on a hill overlooking Marigot Bay with preserved defensive walls and replica cannons pointing toward the Caribbean Sea. The structure features multiple levels of earthworks and exposed foundations of the original buildings.

The fort was built in 1789 under Governor Jean Sebastian de Durat to protect Marigot's harbor warehouses from British and Dutch pirates. It guarded strategically important goods including rum, salt, coffee, and sugarcane stored in the port.

Information panels in English and French explain the military architecture and defensive layouts typical of 18th-century Caribbean forts. Visitors can trace the outlines of former barracks and storage buildings through the remaining foundations.

The site is accessible via Rue du Fort Louis, with parking available at the Les West Indies shopping mall and a short walk uphill to the grounds. The area is manageable on foot, though the path upward is somewhat steep.

From its elevated position, the fort offers views across Marigot, Simpson Bay, and the neighboring island of Anguilla on clear weather days. The location was strategically chosen to spot approaching ships from great distances.

Location: Saint-Martin

Inception: 1789

GPS coordinates: 18.07080,-63.08540

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:44