Morne Fortune
Castries
Morne Fortune is a prominent hill located south of Castries in Saint Lucia, known for its rich colonial military history and panoramic views of the capital. Originally called Morne Dubuc, it was renamed Morne Fortuné in 1765 when the French established their military headquarters there, constructing the Citadelle du Morne Fortuné completed in 1784. The site changed hands multiple times between the French and British during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, reflecting its strategic importance. Fort Charlotte, named in 1794 to honor Queen Charlotte, is part of the complex and was manned by various military units until its abandonment in 1905. Today, remnants of the original fortifications and military buildings remain preserved as a historical area managed by the Saint Lucia National Trust. The hill also hosts educational institutions like the University of the West Indies' Saint Lucian campus and Sir Arthur Lewis Community College. Visitors can enjoy fine views of Castries from the site, including Government House, the official residence of the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, located on the northern side of Morne Fortune.
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Astuce: For the best experience, visit Morne Fortune during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views of Castries and the preserved historical fortifications. Consider checking opening times in advance as the area includes educational institutions and a historical site managed by the Saint Lucia National Trust. Purchasing tickets or arranging guided tours ahead of time can enhance your visit. Look out for any available discounts or group rates, especially for students or seniors.
Faits intéressants
- •Morne Fortune was originally called Morne Dubuc before being renamed in 1765.
- •The Citadelle du Morne Fortuné was completed in 1784 by the French.
- •The site changed hands multiple times between French and British forces during the late 18th century.
- •Fort Charlotte was named by Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, in honor of Queen Charlotte in 1794.
- •A memorial to the 27th (Inniskilling) Regiment of Foot commemorates a key battle at Morne Fortune.
- •The fort was abandoned in 1905 and is now a listed historical area managed by the Saint Lucia National Trust.
- •Government House, the official residence of the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, is located on the northern side of Morne Fortune.
Histoire
Originally known as Morne Dubuc, the hill was renamed Morne Fortuné in 1765 when the French relocated their military headquarters there.
The Citadelle du Morne Fortuné fort was completed in 1784.
The site was contested between French and British forces multiple times between 1794 and 1803, with control finally secured by the British until Saint Lucia's independence in 1979.
Fort Charlotte was named in 1794 by Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, honoring Queen Charlotte.
The fort was manned by military units until its abandonment in 1905, after which the site transitioned to educational and residential uses.
Guide du lieu
Citadelle du Morne Fortuné1784
The original French fortification completed in 1784, which played a pivotal role in the colonial military history of Saint Lucia. Visitors can explore the remaining fort walls and learn about the battles fought here.
Fort Charlotte1794
Named in 1794 to honor Queen Charlotte, this fort was manned by various military units including the 1st West India Regiment and Royal Artillery until its abandonment in 1905.
Government House
The official residence of the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, located on Morne Fortune's northern side, offering fine views over Castries and the surrounding area.