Phare et batterie de Vieux-Fort, Historical lighthouse in Vieux-Fort, Guadeloupe.
The Phare et batterie de Vieux-Fort is a white lighthouse at the southern tip of Basse-Terre that overlooks the gateway to Les Saintes channel. The site includes battery ruins and viewing points that face the surrounding waters and the Bay of Baillif.
The battery was originally built as Fort Royal in 1635 and later served under the name Fort L'Olive before being abandoned. The lighthouse itself was constructed in 1953 in response to the sinking of the sailing ship La Rochannia in 1947.
The structure represents maritime heritage at the location of Fort Royal from 1635, which later became Fort L'Olive, now preserved in ruins.
A walking path leads to the lighthouse and battery grounds with open access to viewing points. The terrain is hilly, so sturdy footwear and caution on uneven ground are recommended.
The battery housed a garrison that included both French and Caribbean soldiers, playing a strategic role in defending the archipelago. This multiethnic crew reflects the complex military past of the island during its colonial era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
