What is the Citadelle Laferriere in Haiti?

The Citadelle Laferrière is a mountaintop fortress, located on the northern coast of Haiti – on the top of mountain Bonnet a L’Eveque. Depicted on local currency, stamps and postcards, this amazing structure has become the symbol of Haiti’s power and independence.

Why was the Citadelle Laferrière Haiti?

Commissioned in 1805 by Henri Christophe and completed in 1820, the fortress was built as part of a system of fortifications designed to thwart potential foreign incursions; notably the French. It is the largest fortress in the Western Hemisphere; it continues to serve as a symbol of Haitian independence.

Who built the Citadelle in Haiti?

Henry Christophe
Sans-Souci and the fortress of La Citadelle Laferrière, both built by Henry Christophe and now in the National History Park; they were designated UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1982. The citadel, often called the Eighth Wonder of the World, was begun in 1804 and took 13 years and 200,000 former…

Why is Citadelle Laferrière important?

Citadelle Laferrière was part of a larger fortification system which included Fort Jacques and Fort Alexandre; all built to protect Haiti from future attacks by colonizers who might sail over from neighboring islands.

Why was the Citadelle built?

This mountaintop fortress was built from 1805 to 1820 in the aftermath of the slave revolution of Haiti and declaration of its independence from France. It was designed as a part of fortification system, which was supposed to defend newly independent Haiti from the attacks of the French Army.

When was the Citadelle Laferrière built?

1820
Citadelle Laferrière/Years built

What are 5 interesting facts about Haiti?

Here are some amazing and interesting facts one should know about Haiti:

Haiti was “discovered” by Christopher Columbus in 1492.
Haiti is the most mountainous country in the Caribbean.
Haiti was the first country in the Western Hemisphere to abolish slavery.
Voodoo is an officially recognized religion in Haiti.

Is Haitian Creole like French?

In addition to French, Haitian Creole also has influences from Spanish, English, Portuguese, and West African languages. Though both French and Haitian Creole are the official languages of Haiti, Haitian Creole is the only language that all Haitians hold in common with one another.

What was the purpose of Québec fortifications?

The Fortifications of Québec were designated a national historic site of Canada in 1957 because: – they commemorate the defence system built between 1608 and 1871 in Quebec City, Canada’s main stronghold in the colonial era. Located on a plateau overlooking the convergence of the St.

Where was the Citadelle Laferriere located in Haiti?

The Citadelle Laferrière or, Citadelle Henri Christophe, or simply the Citadelle (English: Citadel ), is a large early 19th-century fortress situated on the Bonnet à l’Evêque mountaintop in Nord, Haiti.

How to get to the Citadelle in Haiti?

The Citadelle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Haiti. Directions to and history of the fortress are provided by self-appointed guides from the town of Milot. Near the entrance to Sans-Souci Palace, which is at the start of the trail to the Citadelle, visitors may be asked to pay a small fee.

Why was the citadel of Cap Haitien built?

The Citadel was built several miles inland, and atop the 3,000 ft (910 m) Bonnet a L’Eveque mountain, to deter attacks and to provide a lookout into the nearby valleys. Cap-Haïtien and the adjoining Atlantic Ocean are visible from the roof of the fortress.

How did the Citadelle Laferriere become a national symbol?

Loyal followers covered his body in quicklime and entombed it in one of the Citadelle’s interior courtyards to prevent others from mutilating the corpse. The colossal physical dimensions of the fortress have made it a Haitian national symbol, featured on currency, stamps, and tourist ministry posters.