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Government House, Roseau: A Symbol of Dominica's Governance

Discover Dominica's governance and colonial history at the iconic Government House in Roseau, a stately building with lush gardens.

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Government House in Roseau serves as the official residence of the President of Dominica, embodying the nation's sovereignty and rich history. Originally the residence of British governors, its architecture and gardens reflect Dominica's colonial past and its aspirations for the future.

A brief summary to Government House (President residence)

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquil gardens and capture the best light for photographs before the area gets crowded.
  • Check for any special events or open days when the building might be accessible for tours, offering a rare glimpse inside.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby local markets to experience the culture and sample local flavors.
  • Be respectful of the building's significance as a government office while visiting, and adhere to any posted guidelines.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing some walking around the gardens and surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Government House is centrally located in Roseau on Victoria Street, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the city center. From the Old Market, head east along King George V Street until you reach the intersection with Victoria Street. Turn left onto Victoria Street and continue walking straight for about 5 minutes. The State House, also known as Government House, will be on your right side, marked by its distinctive architecture. Look for the large gated entrance. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Roseau is served by a network of privately owned minibuses that connect the city to various towns and villages across Dominica. The main bus station is located on River Bank. From the bus station, Government House is a short walk away. Head east on King George V Street, then turn left onto Victoria Street. Bus fares typically range from EC$1.50 to EC$10.25 depending on the destination. Minibuses generally operate from early morning until around 6:00 PM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at the airports and in Roseau and can be arranged all over the island. They are easily identified by the letters, H, HA, or HB preceding the registration numbers on the number plates. A taxi ride from the city center to Government House is a short trip. The starting price of a taxi in Roseau is 20.0 XCD, and each KM is then priced at 6.2 XCD. A 5km ride in Roseau costs about 51 XCD. It's strongly recommended to ask the driver how much the total fare will be before you get in the taxi to avoid issues.

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Discover more about Government House (President residence)

Government House, situated on Victoria Street in Roseau, is more than just a building; it's a living testament to Dominica's colonial past and its modern aspirations. Serving as the official residence of the President, this iconic landmark embodies the nation's governance and stands as a symbol of its rich heritage. Originally constructed to house the British governors of the island, and briefly used by French authorities, Government House transitioned to its current role following Dominica's independence in 1978. Since then, it has been the dignified home of the President, representing the nation's sovereignty. The building's history is deeply intertwined with the island's own journey through colonial rule to self-governance. Perched atop a low hill south of Roseau's commercial center, Government House commands a stately presence in the city's landscape. Its strategic location offers commanding views of the surrounding area, reflecting its historical significance as a seat of power and authority. The architecture is a prime example of colonial design, featuring intricate windows and doors that invite admiration from passersby. The building's design reflects resilience, constructed to withstand the tropical storms and earthquakes common in the region. It incorporates traditional motifs and local materials, creating a grand space intimately connected to the island's culture. The grounds of Government House have a history as rich as the building itself. Accounts from the 1790s describe lush gardens adorned with various plants and enchanting avenues of trees. While the gardens have suffered periodic devastation from hurricanes over the years, they have always been restored, underscoring the resilience of this historic landmark amidst the forces of nature. Today, the meticulously maintained gardens provide a serene and picturesque setting, enhancing the building's splendid appearance and offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. More than just a historical site, Government House plays an active role in Dominica's community. It serves as a hub for national events, hosting dignitaries, public functions, and essential ceremonies that are central to the nation's identity. The building also includes administrative offices and meeting rooms, making it a vital center for the country's governance. In recent years, Government House has undergone significant redevelopment, including the construction of a new residence for the President and the restoration of the old State House. The redevelopment of the State House campus was completed in 2013.

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