Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at History

Fort Frederick, located on Richmond Hill overlooking St. George's, Grenada, is a testament to the island's colonial past. Constructed between 1779 and 1783 during the conflict between the French and British, the fort stands 244 meters (800 feet) above sea level. The French began construction in 1779 after regaining control of Grenada, realizing the strategic importance of defending against inland attacks. Ironically, after the British captured Grenada in 1795, they completed the fort, which was named after Frederick, the Duke of York. Despite its formidable appearance, Fort Frederick never saw battle, a unique distinction for a Caribbean bastion. Its cannons, facing inland rather than out to sea, led to its moniker as the 'Backward Facing Fort'.Today, visitors can explore the fort's stone walls, bastions, and ramparts while enjoying panoramic views of St. George's, the Caribbean Sea, and the island's lush interior. The fort consists of four levels, including a place of arms, powder magazine, water cisterns, and a network of tunnels. Fort Frederick also served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army during the 1979 Grenada Revolution.