Fort Saint Louis, Military fortress in Fort-de-France, Martinique.
Fort Saint Louis is a military fortress situated on a rocky peninsula at the entrance to Fort-de-France Bay. It has several bastions and thick walls that command views of the harbor and the surrounding waters.
An original fortification was established in 1638, but architect François Blondel designed the current structure following its destruction, rebuilding it in 1669. This reconstruction made it one of the most important defensive positions in the French Caribbean.
The fortress is used by the French Navy today and defines the appearance of Fort-de-France Bay. Visitors can experience the connection between military history and the daily rhythm of the city as they walk across the bastions.
The fort is generally open to visitors, but some areas remain off-limits since the French Navy still uses the site. It is best to check current conditions before visiting and wear sturdy footwear, as the ground is uneven.
The fortress walls shelter a population of Green Iguanas, believed to have arrived by boat from French Guiana or the Îles des Saintes. These reptiles have become a distinctive feature of the site and visitors can often spot them during walks.
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