Fort Matthew: A Historical Sentinel Overlooking St. George's
Explore Fort Matthew in Grenada: a historic fortress with breathtaking Caribbean views and a rich colonial past.
Perched on Richmond Hill, Fort Matthew is a historical landmark with a colorful past. Built by the French from 1784 to 1790, it later fell into British hands. The fort served as a key defensive point, offering strategic views of St. George's harbor and the surrounding area. Over the years, Fort Matthew has played various roles, including a battleground during Anglo-French conflicts and, surprisingly, a mental institution. The fort's intriguing network of tunnels, army kitchens, and cell blocks remain largely intact, providing visitors with a tangible connection to its past. Although partially destroyed during the 1983 U.S. invasion, the site still offers a captivating experience. Today, visitors can explore the fort's grounds, wander through its tunnels, and enjoy stunning views of the town, harbor, and coastline. Informative plaques and guided tours are available, offering insights into the fort's history and its impact on Grenada's development. The fort's location also makes it a great spot for photography, especially at sunset.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort involves walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of St. George's and the coastline.
- Consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history.
A brief summary to Fort Matthew
- 3726+4Q7, St George's, GD
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the St. George's bus terminal, head north towards the city center. Walk along the Carenage, the main road circling the harbor. Continue past the Sendall Tunnel and ascend the fairly steep steps. Follow the signs for Fort Matthew, located on Richmond Hill. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Grand Anse, take the #1 bus towards St. George's. Get off at the St. George's bus terminal. From there, you can walk to Fort Matthew (approximately 20-30 minutes) or take a taxi. Bus fare from Grand Anse to St. George's is approximately EC$2.50 - EC$6.50.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout St. George's. A taxi from the city center to Fort Matthew will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare beforehand; a typical fare is around EC$30-EC$50.
