The capital of French Martinique: 5 must-see tourist spots in Fort-de-France!

The Windward Islands form an arc in the eastern Caribbean Sea. Among them, Martinique is an overseas department of France. After being discovered by Columbus in 1502, the French exterminated the island’s native inhabitants in the 17th century and began full-scale colonization. Fort-de-France is the capital of Martinique, and on its outskirts lies Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport, the island’s only air gateway. This city’s name means “French fortress,” and it is home to historical sightseeing spots with colonial-era streets and buildings. Because the city is compact and faces the bay, sightseeing is easy. Now, let’s explore the 5 recommended tourist spots in Fort-de-France.

1. Fort Saint-Louis

Let’s start by visiting the landmark from which the city takes its name. “Fort” means fortress, and Fort-de-France has two major forts: Fort Saint-Louis, which makes use of a cape jutting into the sea, and Fort Desaix, located on the hill behind the city. The latter is newer and larger, but it currently serves as a military command facility and is not open to the public.

Fort Saint-Louis, built in 1635, now functions as a naval facility, but parts of it can be toured if you join an official tour. Climbing the fort’s structure provides a panoramic view of Fort-de-France and the Caribbean Sea. From the beach at the base of the cape, looking up at the towering fort walls is also an impressive sight.

2. Saint-Louis Cathedral

In the heart of Fort-de-France’s old town, where the streets form a narrow grid, the spire of Saint-Louis Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Louis) rises prominently. Originally built in 1671, it has endured multiple disasters such as fires, earthquakes, and cyclones, and has been repeatedly repaired and rebuilt. In 1895, it was reconstructed with a strong steel frame, and after further restoration in 1978, it took on its current form.

Thanks to the use of steel and other disaster-resistant metal framing, the interior is bright and spacious. A major feature is its stained glass, which depicts Martinique’s plants and scenes from local life. The façade combines Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque styles, while the octagonal dome at the back incorporates Neo-Byzantine elements. When visiting the interior, be sure to take note of the massive pipe organ as well.

3. Old City Hall

Fort-de-France’s Old City Hall (Théâtre Aimé Césaire) was originally built in 1848 but was completely destroyed by a fire in 1890 and a cyclone the following year. The current building, reconstructed in 1901, features an elegant symmetrical façade with a richly decorated central clock tower that draws the eye.

On the second floor, you can find statues by Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse, which survived the disasters. Today, the building functions as a theater, and its small yet beautiful hall is another highlight for visitors.

4. Schœlcher Library

Schœlcher Library (Bibliothèque Schœlcher) is a striking landmark built in 1887, featuring the same architectural style as Saint-Louis Cathedral. Originally, it was not constructed as a library; it was opened as a public library in 1893 by the politician Victor Schœlcher.

Its unique color scheme and a roof reminiscent of the Japanese irimoya style are particularly distinctive. The building makes extensive use of steel framing and glass, giving it a very modern appearance. In Fort-de-France, it is considered one of the city’s historical architectural sightseeing spots, alongside the cathedral.

5. Saint-Pierre

Saint-Pierre is the former capital of Martinique. Located northwest of Fort-de-France, it was once so beautiful that it was called the “Little Paris of the Caribbean.” In 1902, Mount Pelée, located to the north of the town, erupted, and pyroclastic flows devastated Saint-Pierre. About 30,000 people died, and it is said that only three people in the city survived. As a result, Martinique’s capital was moved to Fort-de-France, which at the time was just a small settlement.

Today, Saint-Pierre is a quiet town overlooking a gentle bay. Only a few remnants remain, such as the small theater ruins reminiscent of Roman remains, but the city layout still carries traces of the former Little Paris. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the peaceful streets and sampling local Creole cuisine while sightseeing.

◎ Summary

We have introduced recommended tourist spots in Fort-de-France, the capital of Martinique, an overseas department of France. To reach Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport, located on the outskirts of Fort-de-France, flights from Miami or Paris are convenient. Since Martinique uses the Euro, if you are traveling from Paris, there is no need for currency exchange.