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Heritage
Martinique’s heritage is an intriguing mix of Creole, African, French and Indian cultures. The deep roots of the Creole culture come directly from Africa and are alive and well in daily life. Here are a few examples:
Typical appetizers such as Accras, the golden codfish fritters served with Martinique’s traditional rum aperitif Ti-punch, were originally eaten in West African countries such as Chad and Senegal.
Creole, Martinique’s “second language”, was created in the Americas by Africans. Locals often use this dialect to better express intimacy, humor and philosophy.
African expertise in ironworking and woodcarving is evident in Fort-de-France’s decorative forged iron balconies that recall those of New Orleans, and in intricately carved colonial furniture found all over the island.
Martinique’s many drum beats and traditional dances are reminiscent of West African ceremonial gatherings.
Since the mid-1940’s Martinique has been an overseas department of France.
As a result, French culture has influenced many aspects of the island’s development over the years . . . in conjunction with Creole/African influences. Martinique’s charm and sophistication, its passion for food, and its celebration of literature, art and architecture all point to its strong French heritage.
For more information on Martinique’s heritage, click here to download
Martinique Heritage Trail PDF brochure.
Key dates in Martinique’s history
The Lesser Antilles were inhabited by the Arawaks and the Caribs who originally came from northwestern South America (Orinoco - Venezuela).
Christopher Columbus landed in Martinique.
Pierre Belain d’Esnambuc landed in Martinique and established the Saint-Pierre fort right on the spot, the site would later become the city of Saint-Pierre that we know today.
A period of chaos between the settlers and the native Caribs. The Caribs were confined to the windward zone (from Grand-Rivière to le François).
The first African slaves were brought to the French Antilles.
The Caribs were practically exterminated by the Europeans.
Colbert’s “Black Code” was established, a text of 60 articles that officially governed the life of slaves until 1848.
The height of the plantation economy and slavery.
Slavery was abolished and Indian laborers were gradually introduced.
The eruption of Mount Pelée and the subsequent destruction of the city of Saint-Pierre, the “little Paris of the Caribbean”. 30,000 people perished in the disaster.
Martinique acquired the status of a French overseas department. Today, Martinique is represented by 4 members of parliament and 2 senators.
Martinique acquired French regional status following the decentralization law. Today, Martinique has a double status; it is both a region and a French department.
Historical Monuments
With its colorful dome and façades, the Schoelcher Library is by far the city’s most beautiful monument. Designed by architect Henri Pick, a contemporary of Gustave Eiffel and the Saint-Louis Cathedral designer, the library was disassembled and transported to Martinique after serving as the Canada Pavilion at the 1898 World Expo. Despite its unusual Romano- Byzantine architectural style, this building blends into its environment well.
Dates from 1895. Don’t miss the splendid organ.
Cultural workshops – Palais de Justice Garden Victor Schoelcher Statue. An early 20th century building, the Courthouse was the scene of major trials in Martinique’s history. The famous speeches of brilliant lawyers (Victor Sévère, Joseph Lagrosillière...) still echo in these unused rooms.
Built in 1933, listed as a historical monument in 1990.
Listed as a historical monument in 1979
Listed Monument Military architectural style known as “à la Vauban”. In light of the tensions between the French and the English during colonial times, these fortifications were built in 1640, at the behest of Governor de Baas.
This basilica dates from 1924 – It is a 1/5 replica of the Montmartre Basilica in Paris.
On April 8th, 1830, a slave boat was maneuvering in risky conditions off the coast of Diamant. At 11 pm, the raging ocean finally got her way and the boat was smashed up against the rocks. The boat was completely destroyed, and 46 bodies were found the next day. The slave-ship sailors were buried in the Diamant cemetery, and the drowned Africans were buried not far from the coastline. This monument is a tribute to the victims of slave trade; it was created by Laurent Valère, a local artist.
