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Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at History

Explore Grenada's Fort Frederick: A historic Caribbean bastion with stunning panoramic views of St. George's and the island's lush landscape.

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Perched atop Richmond Hill, Fort Frederick offers panoramic views of St. George's and the Grenadian coastline. Built by the French and completed by the British, this remarkably preserved bastion never fired a shot in anger, offering a unique glimpse into the island's colonial past.

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and exploring the fort's different levels.
  • Bring a flashlight to explore the tunnels at the base of the fort, as they are unlit.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Fort Matthew for a more comprehensive historical experience.
  • Remember to bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments may not be accepted.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From St. George's, a taxi is a convenient way to reach Fort Frederick. Taxis are readily available in the city center. Ensure the driver has a visible ID and agree on the fare before starting your journey. The ride to Richmond Hill takes about 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around US$15-20 for the trip. Tipping the driver 10% is customary.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses operate from St. George's to the Richmond Hill area. Look for buses with a 'Richmond Hill' zone sticker. The bus fare ranges from EC$2.50 to EC$6.50. From the bus stop on Richmond Hill, it's a short walk uphill to the fort. Be prepared for a steep incline.

  • Walking

    For those who enjoy a scenic walk, Fort Frederick is accessible from St. George's. The two-mile hike from the city center takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Be prepared for a steady uphill climb, especially as you approach Richmond Hill. Follow the main road leading east from the Carenage, and then look for signs directing you to Fort Frederick. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

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Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, one of the best-preserved bastions in the Caribbean, sits majestically overlooking St. George's harbor. Construction was started by the French in 1779 after they recaptured Grenada, realizing the strategic importance of fortifying Richmond Hill. The British completed the fort in 1783. Positioned 244 meters (800 feet) above sea level, the fort was designed to protect the harbor's eastern entrance. Interestingly, Fort Frederick never fired a single cannon in anger. The cannons were strategically placed facing inland, leading to its nickname, the "Backward Facing Fort". The fort consists of four levels: the upper level, or place of arms, with a powder magazine; the second level with water cisterns, encasement chambers, and gun batteries; and the third level, a network of tunnels used for provision stores. During the 1979 Grenada Revolution, Fort Frederick served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army. It was also a meeting place for the Central Committee led by Maurice Bishop. Today, visitors can explore the fort's ramparts, gun emplacements, and tunnels, while enjoying stunning panoramic views of St. George's, the Caribbean Sea, and the lush Grenadian landscape.

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