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Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at History

Explore Grenada's Fort Frederick for panoramic views and a unique glimpse into the island's colonial past. A Caribbean historical landmark.

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Fort Frederick, perched atop Richmond Hill in Grenada, offers panoramic views and a unique historical perspective. Built by the French in the late 18th century and completed by the British, this remarkably preserved bastion never fired a shot in anger, earning it the nickname 'backward-facing fort' due to its inland-facing cannons.

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort's uneven surfaces and exploring the grounds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of St. George's and the coastline.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy softer lighting for photography.
  • Consider combining your visit with a trip to nearby Fort Matthew for a more comprehensive historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of St. George's, Fort Frederick is approximately a 2-mile uphill walk. The walk will take you through the streets of St. George's and then uphill to Richmond Hill. Follow the signs towards Fort Matthew; Fort Frederick is adjacent to it. Be prepared for a moderately strenuous walk due to the hill.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run from St. George's to the Richmond Hill area. From the bus stop on Richmond Hill, there is a short walk to the fort. Bus fares are typically around EC$2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in St. George's. A taxi ride from the town center to Fort Frederick will cost approximately EC$25-30. Agree on the fare before starting your journey. Several taxi services offer island tours that include Fort Frederick.

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Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, majestically situated on Richmond Hill, provides breathtaking views of St. George's harbor and the surrounding Grenadian landscape. Constructed between 1779 and 1783 during the tug-of-war between the French and British for control of Grenada, it stands as one of the Caribbean's best-preserved forts. Ironically, despite its formidable appearance and strategic location, Fort Frederick never engaged in battle. The French designed the fort to defend against inland attacks after they successfully took the island from the British by that strategy. Its cannons were intentionally positioned inland, leading to its moniker as the 'backward-facing fort'. From its vantage point 244 meters (800 feet) above sea level, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Grenada's beauty. The azure Caribbean Sea shimmers in the distance, while lush mountains and quaint houses dot the landscape to the north. Fort Frederick, along with other nearby forts, played a crucial role in Grenada's history, serving as a stronghold during colonial conflicts. Visitors can explore the fort's ramparts and gun emplacements, gaining insight into the island's military past. During the 1979 Grenada Revolution, Fort Frederick served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army. The fort consists of four levels, including a powder magazine, water cisterns, and a network of tunnels.

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