Haiti’s historic sites and cultural streets

Explore Cap-Haïtien’s landmarks, Jacmel’s historic centre and sites tied to Haiti’s independence.

Haiti’s history and culture come into focus at historic buildings, public monuments and streets lined with artisan workshops. These stops range from Cap-Haïtien and Milot in the north to Jacmel in the southeast.

1. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de l'Assomption, Cap-Haïtien

   Things to do, Nord Department

   This active Catholic parish anchors Place d’Armes in Cap-Haïtien’s old town. Its colonnaded facade and the surrounding colonial streets make it a natural stop on a walking tour.

2. Citadelle Laferrière

   Things to do, Nord Department

   Built after independence under King Henry Christophe, this mountaintop fortress has cannon-lined galleries and ramparts overlooking the northern mountains and coastline.

3. Jacmel Historic Centre

   Things to do, Sud-Est Department

   Jacmel’s historic centre brings together nineteenth-century merchant houses, artisan workshops and galleries displaying papier-mâché carnival masks. A seafront promenade links the old streets to the water.

4. Monument des Héros de Vertières

   Things to do, Nord Department

   This open-air monument marks the site of the 1803 Battle of Vertières, the final engagement that sealed Haiti’s independence. Ceremonies take place here each Vertières Day.

5. Sans-Souci Palace

   Things to do, Nord Department

   King Henry Christophe’s ruined palace in Milot was completed in 1813 and toppled by an earthquake in 1842. Its staircases, arches and terraced gardens reflect the ambition of newly independent Haiti.