The center of Martinique

…s Martinique's second-largest city by population and is also an important industrial center. It's a strategic crossroad connecting the north and south of the island. While 100% of tourists arrive in Martinique via Le Lamentin, few linger. Here, it's far from the postcard landscapes of the south and closer to the hustle and bustle of big mainland cities.

Industrial zones, endless traffic jams, refineries, and shopping centers make up the cityscape, yet these elements make it one of Martinique's most dynamic cities. Le Lamentin is synonymous with shopping and administrative procedures for many Martinicans. However, it's worth noting the presence of La Favorite distillery, one of the last family-owned businesses in the sector. The rum is still produced in an artisanal way and is known to be the smoothest in Martinique. It's worth a visit before heading back to the mainland to alleviate the sadness of departure.

Saint Joseph, the Rivière Blanche Parish

The town of Saint Joseph was initially a neighborhood north of Le Lamentin, named Rivière-Blanche parish. In 1888, the parish became an independent municipality. Saint Joseph is located next to Gros-Morne and doesn't have direct access to the sea. However, the residents, known as joséphins, can find solace with two rivers: Rivière Blanche and Rivière Lézarde.

The presence of watercourses, along with rainfall, makes this mountain town Martinique's water tower. This city with abundant vegetation will delight nature lovers and hikers. Don't miss Coeur Bouliki, a small natural area along the Rivière Blanche, perfect for picnics and beautiful walks in the rainforest.

Schoelcher, Fort-de-France's Suburb

Originally named Case Navire, the town was established in 1888 when its territory was separated from Fort-de-France. A year later, the town was renamed in tribute to Victor Schoelcher, a famous anti-slavery figure. It's the fourth most populous city in Martinique. Located next to Fort-de-France, the two cities are contiguous, almost merging to the extent that Schoelcher is considered the suburb of the "capital." It's also a university town hosting the University of the Antilles and Guiana with its 6,000 students, along with numerous administrative buildings.

Schoelcher is home to Madiana Congress Center, the only cinema complex on the island. But Schoelcher is not merely an extension of the capital; it's a charming town with its marina and a magnificent view of Fort-de-France Bay. Just a few minutes from downtown is a lovely fine sand beach, one of five nearby (Anse Madame, Batelière Beach, and Madiana Beach being the most famous).

Like elsewhere in Martinique, fishermen are present on the beaches, and it's possible to buy their fresh catch directly. Schoelcher is a microcosm of Martinique with its restaurants, family picnics, and its charming little village buzzing with cheerfulness.

Fort-de-France, the Heartbeat of Martinique

Fort-de-France is often considered the "capital" of Martinique, although technically it isn't, as the island is not a country but both a region and a department. Nevertheless, it underscores the city's capital importance and the strong identity of the island.

Fort-de-France is the city with the highest population (almost 85,000) and the hub for political and economic activities. Situated on the western side of the island, facing the Caribbean Sea, Fort-de-France holds a central and strategic position. It was long in competition with Saint Pierre before the latter's destruction during the eruption of Mount Pelée.

Originally, the city was a simple fort named Fort Royal built in the 17th century to protect the island against multiple English invasion attempts. Under the Empire in 1807, the city became the capital of the colony and was named Fort-de-France, retaining the name even during the British occupation from 1809 to 1815.

Despite its administrative and military importance, Fort-de-France remained in the shadow of Saint Pierre, which had a very significant cultural influence throughout the Antilles. With the abolition of slavery, the city experienced an influx of free people, contributing to its development. The destruction of Saint Pierre also concentrated the population in Fort-de-France.

Touristically, Fort-de-France boasts numerous not-to-be-missed attractions. These include various markets specializing in fruits and vegetables, local crafts, fish, spices, and meats. These markets offer tourists a unique immersion into Martinique's atmosphere. Visitors will also appreciate the visit to Fort Saint Louis, the Schoelcher Library, a historic monument, and the Saint Louis Cathedral.

Main Attractions in Central Martinique

As you've gathered, the central part of Martinique is strategically essential for political, economic, and administrative reasons. But it also hosts many tourist attractions, beautiful beaches, and scenic walks. Here's a brief overview of what you shouldn't miss during your stay in this part of the island.

Fort Saint Louis

Delve into Martinique's rich military history with a visit to Fort Saint Louis in Fort-de-France. This central element in the island's defense, particularly during the troubled period of wars between European nations for control of the New World's riches, offers a true journey through time. A historic monument, this Vauban-type fort was built to protect the bay, a hub for numerous commercial and military ships.

Initially, it started as simple palisades erected in 1637 on the orders of Du Parquet, the then Lieutenant General of Martinique, on the peninsula called "Cul de Sac Royal." The fortifications intensified from 1672. In 1676, plans were established by a disciple of Vauban, and the fort assumed its final form in 1680, subsequently named Fort Louis. Today, the fort serves as the naval base for the National Navy of the Armed Forces in the Antilles.

Saint Louis Cathedral

Originally a simple shelter with a thatched roof in 1671, the building gradually acquired walls and tiles. Its official consecration as a cathedral dates back to 1850, a few years after the creation of the Martinique parish. A cyclone destroyed the cathedral in 1891, and it was architect Henri Picq who gave it its current form.

The Parisian architect spent a long time in Martinique from 1890, contributing to the construction of numerous buildings. His style, marked by the use of metal structures, equipped the cathedral with a metal framework to strengthen it against natural disasters. His original style blends neo-Gothic and Romano-Byzantine influences.

The official inauguration took place in 1895. Despite precautions, the cathedral was damaged by the earthquake of 1953, leading to the dismantling of the spire and part of the bell tower in 1971. A new spire was installed in 1976. Finally listed in the inventory of historical monuments in 1990, the cathedral has been under restoration since then. The cathedral stands out for its interior as well, especially its 19th-century stained glass windows and certain furniture elements also classified in the inventory of historical monuments.

Schoelcher Library

Bequeathed to Martinique by the famous politician Victor Schoelcher, deputy of Martinique and Guadeloupe until 1850 and a celebrated abolitionist figure. He left his library, consisting of 10,000 books and musical scores, to the General Council of Martinique, on the condition that the library be open to everyone. The library was particularly intended to contribute to the education of former slaves.

The building's design was entrusted to architect Henri Picq. Notably, the structure was assembled in Paris at the Tuileries Garden between 1886 and 1887 before being dismantled piece by piece for transport and reassembly in Martinique. With its architectural similarity to the Saint Louis Cathedral, the library was classified as a historical monument in 1993. Note that only 1200 books were saved from the great fire of 1890. Presently, the library houses over 130,000 books, including a significant collection of Caribbean materials. The Schoelcher Library is considered one of the most beautiful buildings on the island.

Gardens, Parks, and Beaches in Central Martinique

Balata Garden. A short distance from Fort-de-France is the Balata Botanical Garden. Originally a private initiative started in 1982 by horticulturist Jean Philippe Thoze with his personal collection of plants. It wasn't until 1986 that the garden opened to the public, allowing them to admire around 3000 species of tropical plants and flowers from around the world. The park also features a traditional Creole house to visit and a complete trail to fully enjoy this paradise.

Anse Madame. Just a stone's throw from Schoelcher, Anse Madame is a charming grayish sandy beach. Although not particularly exceptional compared to other Martinique beaches, it's a well-liked spot among locals. It's a popular meeting place for sports enthusiasts, especially with its water sports base offering activities like kayaking, aquagym, sailing, or windsurfing. On land, there's a health trail for the more adventurous. It's not the beach for lazing around but for sports. Note the presence of a restaurant allowing dining right by the water.

Cœur Bouliki. In the commune of Saint Joseph, nestled in its splendid rainforest, Cœur Bouliki is a green haven spanning 1500 hectares. Bathed by two rivers, Rivière Blanche and Rivière Lézarde, Cœur Bouliki is popular among families who gather here for picnics accompanied by the river's lapping and bird songs. Beautiful walks and hikes are possible in this place considered the green lung of Martinique.

Batelière Beach. The commune of Schoelcher, adjacent to Fort-de-France, might not be the most touristy, but it holds significant assets. This is evident in Batelière Beach, located at the foot of the hotel of the same name, splendid with its turquoise water and fine sand. The place is primarily frequented by tourists but remains moderately crowded. A diving center allows exploration of the beauty beneath the waters, and a trendy bar serves cocktails by the sea.