Basseterre
Saint Kitts
Basseterre, the capital city of Saint Kitts and Nevis, is one of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean, founded in 1627 by French colonists. Located on the southwestern coast of Saint Kitts Island, it serves as a major commercial hub in the Leeward Islands. The city is nestled in a valley surrounded by lush hills and mountains, offering a scenic setting with a tropical semi-arid climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Basseterre's architecture reflects its turbulent history, having been rebuilt multiple times due to colonial conflicts, fires, earthquakes, and hurricanes. Notable landmarks include The Circus, modeled after London's Piccadilly Circus, and a historic fountain dedicated to Thomas Berkeley Hardtman Berkeley. The city’s layout follows a grid pattern with four main east-west streets and a central north-south street, hosting the island's main shops, banks, and cultural centers such as Independence Square. Basseterre’s port, including the reclaimed land of Port Zante, remains vital for trade and tourism in the region.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to explore Basseterre during the dry season from December to April for the most comfortable weather. Purchasing tickets for tours or ferry services in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist times. The city’s compact layout makes walking convenient, but be prepared for occasional brief rains outside the dry season. Discounts may be available for students and seniors at some cultural sites. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for photography, capturing the city's colonial architecture and vibrant street life.
Interesting facts
- •Basseterre is one of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean, founded in 1627.
- •The Circus in Basseterre was modeled after London's Piccadilly Circus.
- •Port Zante was created on 15 acres of land reclaimed from the sea in 1995.
- •Basseterre means 'low land' in French, reflecting its geography and sheltered location.
- •The city has been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt due to colonial wars, fires, earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes.
History
Basseterre was established in 1627 by the French under Sieur Pierre Belain d'Esnambuc and became the capital of the French colony of Saint-Christophe.
Under Governor Phillippe de Longvilliers de Poincy in 1639, it grew into a major port commanding Eastern Caribbean trade.
The city was the capital of the French West Indies colony until 1660 and became the capital of Saint Kitts in 1727 after British control was fully established.
Throughout its history, Basseterre has endured destruction from wars, natural disasters, and fires, notably the great fire of 1867, after which much of the current architecture was constructed.
Place Guide
The Circus1883
A central roundabout in Basseterre designed after London's Piccadilly Circus, serving as a focal point for tourism with shops and eateries surrounding it.
Independence Square
Historic square housing the cathedral, courthouse, and many well-preserved colonial buildings, reflecting the city's rich heritage.
Port Zante1995
A modern commercial port area built on reclaimed land in 1995, vital for trade and cruise ship tourism.
