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Haïti : Citadelle la FerrièreHaïti : Citadelle la Ferrière

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Events and Festivals March 29, 2024

Plume en Quest: Celebration of Haitian Women at the Alliance Française of Jacmel.

On March 23, 2024, in an atmosphere full of emotion and reflection, the Alliance française de Jacmel witnessed a unique cultural event of its kind. In collaboration with the Jacmel Jazz Festival, Plume en Quête presented a captivating show entitled “The Haitian woman is an asset”. Under the artistic direction of Jean Kenia, this captivating show drew on the provocative writings of the famous philosopher Simone de Beauvoir. Through striking artistic performances, the audience was transported on an introspective journey about the central role of women in Haitian society. The spectators, who came in large numbers to witness this event, were deeply touched by the evocative power of the show. “It was an incredible experience,” said one spectator. “This show captured the strength and resilience of Haitian women in a striking way.” Beyond its artistic aspect, this show also raised important questions about gender equality and women’s empowerment. By highlighting the essential contribution of Haitian women to society, he called for collective reflection on the need to promote social justice and gender equality. In short, this evening at the Alliance Française was much more than just entertainment: it was a vibrant testimony to the strength, resilience and beauty of Haitian women, as well as a call to action in favor of a fairer and more equitable future for all.

Par Jarule Laguerre | 1
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City April 03, 2024

Exploring Cayes-Jacmel, Haiti: Discovering a tourist and cultural treasure.

Nestled in the splendid mountains of the southeastern region of Haiti, the picturesque commune of Cayes-Jacmel emerges as a rare pearl, offering an incomparable tourist and cultural experience. With its lush green landscapes, rich cultural heritage and exciting activities, this destination promises an unforgettable journey for travelers seeking authenticity and natural beauty. As soon as you arrive in Cayes-Jacmel, you will be captivated by the splendor of its landscapes. The plains and hills that dominate the terrain offer a breathtaking spectacle, ideal for picturesque hikes and leisurely walks. The town is also full of crystal clear waterways, perfect for a refreshing break or a relaxing fishing session. Explore the hidden trails and let yourself be enchanted by the thriving biodiversity of the region, where nature reigns supreme. Without forgetting the magnificent beaches of Kabic like "Ti Mouillage", where the fine sand and turquoise waters invite relaxation and water sports. Cayes-Jacmel is steeped in rich history and vibrant culture, reflected in its majestic temples and churches. With more than thirty-two temples of all faiths, including Baptist churches, Churches of God and Catholic churches, the town is a symbol of religious diversity and tolerance. Immerse yourself in the region’s fascinating past by visiting the magistrate’s court and police station, witnesses to its political and legal legacy. Experience the excitement of local life by participating in the lively festivals and cultural events of Cayes-Jacmel. Immerse yourself in the haunting rhythms of Haitian music during community celebrations, and discover traditional crafts at local markets. Don’t miss the town’s annual festival, where dance, gastronomy and the arts combine to create a festive and warm atmosphere. Whether you’re a sports lover, adventure enthusiast, or simply looking for relaxation, Cayes-Jacmel has something to offer every traveler. Play football or basketball on the local pitches, or dance the night away at one of the town’s lively nightclubs. For an authentic experience, join a fishing excursion with the locals, or explore the region’s hidden gems on an exciting jeep tour. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and captivating activities, Cayes-Jacmel emerges as an incomparable tourist and cultural destination in Haiti. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation or cultural discoveries, this picturesque town promises you an unforgettable experience, imbued with the very essence of Haitian life. Embark on a journey to the heart of the magic of Cayes-Jacmel and let yourself be enchanted by its charm.

Par Grégory Henderson LEFRUIT |
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City May 08, 2024

Discover Cap-Haitien: The 2nd city of Haiti

Cap-Haïtien, is a coastal city in the northern department of Haiti, formerly known under the names of Cap-Français or Cap-Henri. Dominated by the Morne Jean mountain, this destination offers an immersion in the French colonial past and the Haitian revolution. Nestled by picturesque bays and bordered by the Haut-du-Cap river, Cap-Haitien appeals to travelers looking for authenticity and seaside adventure. The city, rich in history and culture, has seen the birth of renowned artists like Philomé Obin and hosts a vibrant music scene with the groups Septentrional and Tropicana from Haiti. Its hidden treasures, including the Citadelle La Ferrière and the historic site of Vertières, as well as its magnificent natural landscapes, make Cap-Haitien an unmissable destination in the Caribbean. Paradise beaches in Labadie and cobbled streets evoking a rich past invite visitors to fully immerse themselves in Haitian history and culture. Cap-Haïtien, formerly Cap-Français or Cap-Henri, is the second city of Haiti, capital of the Nord department and the district of Cap-Haïtien. Located on the northern coast of the Republic of Haïti , was considered in the 19th century as the safest port. Dominated by the Morne Jean mountain, culminating at 718 meters above sea level, the town is located at the mouth of the Haut-du-Cap river, on the west coast. of the bay of Cap-Haïtien. To the west of the town lies the Acul Bay.

Par Jarule Laguerre | 2
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Vertières, Fort Mazi: Beyond historical truth;

If you look up the word vertière in a French dictionary, you will not find it for fear that the world does not know this place represents the Achilles heels of the most powerful European army. What’s more, this one had just successfully won the eastern campaign. French historians of the time erased this geographical location from the radar of history because they did not want to tell the story as it is in the sense of explaining the first great humiliation of the expeditionary army French by bands of slaves who were totally ignorant in the art of waging war, much less in the handling of weapons. However, these illiterate wars routed the Napoleonic army, the most powerful at that time, using the means at hand. This expeditionary army, after having brought Europe to its knees, would experience its first rout by slaves in this geographical location, located in the Northern department of Haiti. Funny story, this city is not on the list of French words even though given its historical importance, it should be at the heart of universal history, far from putting an end to the invincibility of the undefeated army army. So as not to offend the white masters, no political leader has ever asked why vertière does not appear in any French dictionary? However, they celebrate this battle with great fanfare every November 18. What historic hypocrisy among our leaders! After Vertière many other historical places are strangled by historians in order to hide the extremes of atrocities of the French colonists on the slaves. It is in this context of historical strangulation that “Fort Mazi” is not mentioned in school history textbooks. This is located in Petit-Goave, 2nd municipal section, Arnoux locality. We came across this mega fort, during a mobile clinic entirely financed by the Ernest Junior foundation, a charitable foundation which works in the social sector, particularly in the field of art and music. According to residents , the oldest in this locality, this fort was built on at least 20 squares of earth by the settlers. It was a huge military complex divided into compartments, outposts, turtle rooms, rooms for treating colonists, a large Catholic church, and a cemetery. However, we never talk about this fort so much so that it is ignored by history teachers in the town of Petit-Goave. Certainly, the desired disappearance of this fort under the radar of history buries the atrocities, the barbarities, the most inhumane punishments of the colonists on the slaves. Looking closely at reality, everything seems true that it is the largest fort ever built during the period of colonization. Moreover, it probably seems the most fortified in relation to its importance. Remember that Vertière only exists in Haitian school history textbooks while Fort Mazi does not appear, much less in French dictionaries or history books. This explains why this fort was a secret place in which the settlers practiced crimes and atrocities that went beyond human understanding. Is it not a clear desire of historians to hide what this immense fort built on at least 20 tiles of earth really was? Discover the history of Haiti: A fascinating story to explore! : https://haitiwonderland.com/haiti/histoire/decouvrez-l-histoire-d-haiti--un-recit-fascinant-a-explorer/81

Guédés: When Haïti celebrates its ancestors with color and fervor

Every November 1st and 2nd, Haïti comes alive with the colors black and purple to celebrate the Guédés, spirits venerated in the voodoo religion, symbols of a powerful bond between the living and the dead. Fascinating, indomitable and provocative, the Guédés form a true family in the pantheon of Haitian voodoo, where they are respected for their role as spiritual guides of the deceased to the afterlife. Led by iconic figures such as the legendary Baron Samedi and his companion Grann Brigitte, the Guédés embody the paradoxes of life and death. Each Baron has a unique personality: Baron Cimetière, Baron Kriminel, and Baron La Croix are the guardians of the souls that wander on the borders of the world of the dead. Together, they form a powerful and somewhat frightening presence, but one that is deeply rooted in Haitian culture. The Guédés are not like other voodoo spirits; they demonstrate their fearlessness in a spectacular way. Accustomed to death, they are fearless and are provocative: they eat glass, raw peppers, and coat their sensitive parts with rum and pepper. These gestures mark their indifference to danger and remind us that they have already known earthly life. They are thus psychopomps – these beings who lead the souls of the dead – and act as bridges between the world of the living and that of the dead. Some Guédés, like Guédé Nibo, wear black, purple, and white clothing, each with unique characteristics. They are many and varied: Guédé Fouillé, Guédé Loraj, Papa Guédé, and many others. These are the spirits who, each year, remind Haitians of the importance of remembering and honoring the deceased. The cult of the Guédés is not only religious; it is also cultural and historical. According to tradition, their spiritual territory, or “Fètomè” – nicknamed the “Country without Hats” – is a place where the souls of ancestors reside. According to stories, the origins of this cult go back to the Abomey plateau, the ancient capital of the kingdom of Dahomey, in Africa, where death and life coexist in a form of symbiosis. This celebration in Haïti even finds echoes in ancient history. The Romans also honored their dead with the “Fête des Lémuria”, which took place in February, to ward off spirits and restore peace between the world of the living and that of the deceased. For Haitians, honoring the Guédés is about accepting death as a part of life and celebrating the invisible bonds that unite us with those who have left us. It is also a way of resisting, because life, despite its challenges, must be celebrated in all its complexity and depth.

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History

History

First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Heritage

Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culture

Culture

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.

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