Basse-Terre – capital city of Guadeloupe

Basse-Terre is the administrative capital of Guadeloupe. One of the oldest French settlements in the Caribbean Islands, Guadeloupe was founded in 1640. Lying in the shadow of the Soufriere volcano, the city was twice annexed by British. Basse-Terre was also influenced by prominent historical events like the French Revolution, Napoleonic Suppression and Anti-Slavery Movement. Natural disasters such as hurricanes and volcanic eruptions have restricted the population of the city to 14,000 inhabitants.

While in Basse-Terre, one can amaze at marvelous French buildings reflecting the French colonial era. The major attractions in the city are the cathedral, Etang As de Pique, Fort St-Charles, Palace du Champ d’Arband and the botanical gardens. The city is spotted with buildings with French colonial architecture. It is a feast for the eyes to see buildings such as the Prefecture buildings, Cours Nolivos townhouse and Church of Notre-Dame du Mont-Carmel. The Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul is a 19^th century structure having a prominent façade of gray stone. The white statues in the building presents a beautiful view of the cathedral.

Fort St Charles is named in reverence of the founder of Basse-Terre, Charles Houl. It is also called as Fort Louis Delgres. Begun in 1640, this large colonial fortress was the first building to be erected in the town. Even today, it stands erect and well preserved on a prominent hill in the town's southern end. The fort houses a historical museum and the graves of two famous French officers, General Richpance and Admiral Gourbeyre.

Place du Champ d’Arband / Jardin Pichon is the main square of the city with an adjoining park it to the south. The streets around the square are lined with typical colonial buildings. A war memorial stands strikingly in the center of the square.

Etang As de Pigue at an elevation of 748 m is worth a visit to witness spellbinding beauty. You will be delighted to find one of the largest mountainside lakes formed in craters on the volcanic massif of La Soufriere. The isolated and tranquil lake looks beautiful surrounded by lush greenery covering the hillsides. Zoological and Botanical Park is at the height of 457m on the banks of the Rivière aux Hérbes. It is plant and animal reserve of Guadeloupe where you can enjoy a spectacle of numerous small animals such as land turtles, raccoons and iguana.