Martinique is much more than a sunny holiday destination; it's a melting pot of intertwined cultures and histories. From the tragic epics of slavery to the sparkle of contemporary artistic creation, Martinique's museums invite you to an intimate encounter with the soul of the island. You'll come away not only tanned, but enriched and moved.
Discover, rediscover the Habitation Clément If you are passing through Le François , why not make a small detour to the Clément distillery or Habitati...
Located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, Martinique is a charming French-speaking island that exudes charm, warmth, and a zest for life. But beyond its numerous idyllic beaches and lush nature, it is a territory rich in historical facts and culture. The island's museums offer visitors a unique opportunity to discover the cultural and creative diversity, complex historical past, and Martinican identity. Here is a guide to help you navigate through the cultural treasures that Martinique has to o…
…ffer.
Must-Visit Highlights of the Island
La Savane des Esclaves
Located in Les Trois-Îlets, this open-air museum is a reconstitution of a slave village and a Creole plantation. It is designed to educate visitors about the lives of slaves and free people of color in Martinique from the 17th century until the abolition of slavery in 1848. Created by "Ti Gilbè," it is an important place that bears witness to the times and changes Martinique has undergone in the past centuries. Additionally, the Creole garden allows you to learn more about the island's medicinal plants, flowers, and fruits!
Departmental Museum of Martinique
Located in Fort-de-France, this museum allows you to explore the rich and more extensive history of Martinique, from the pre-Columbian period to modern times. Quite an agenda! Exhibitions on local fauna and flora, colonial history, and independence movements provide a comprehensive overview of the island.
La Pagerie
La Pagerie is the estate where Empress Joséphine de Beauharnais, the wife of Napoleon Bonaparte, was born. This museum, located in Les Trois-Îlets, provides insight into the life of this historical but highly controversial figure and the Creole society of her time. Furniture, letters, and other personal belongings are on display in this space, bearing witness to an era both distant and close. Not to be missed!
Earth Science Discovery Center
Pour les amoureux de la géologie et de la vulcanologie, ce musée vous propose de comprendre la formation des diverses îles des Antilles, les nombreux risques sismiques et l'histoire de la montagne Pelée, le volcan encore actif de la Martinique, dont la dernière éruption, très meurtrière, remonte à 1902.
Le Mémorial de l'Anse Caffard
For geology and volcanology enthusiasts, this museum offers you the opportunity to understand the formation of the various islands in the Caribbean, the numerous seismic risks, and the history of Mount Pelée, the still-active volcano in Martinique, with its last highly destructive eruption dating back to 1902.
Places Dedicated to Art and Craftsmanship*
The Famous Habitation Clément
Located in Le François, it showcases a collection of Caribbean contemporary art, a Creole garden perfect for strolling and enjoying the outdoors, and also allows you to follow the production process of local rum, from sugarcane harvesting, the main ingredient of this beverage, to bottling! This exceptional rum has received international recognition.
The Pottery Village
Home to the island's most talented artisans, this is a must-see! You'll find artisanal ice creams as well as products such as clothing, jewellery and even paintings !