Fort Matthew: A Historical Sentinel Overlooking St. George's
Explore Grenada's largest fort, Fort Matthew, offering panoramic views and a journey through colonial and social history.
Fort Matthew, situated on Richmond Hill, is the largest fort in Grenada, built by the French and later utilized by the British. Construction took place from 1784 to 1790 and the fort was named after Governor Edward Matthew. Its strategic location offers commanding views of St. George's, the harbor, and the surrounding coastline. Originally designed for military defense, Fort Matthew later served as a mental institution for the Windward Islands starting in 1880. The fort's architecture includes underground tunnels, ammunition chambers, and living quarters, reflecting its dual purpose over the centuries. Although partially damaged during the U.S. invasion of Grenada in 1983, much of the fort remains intact, allowing visitors to explore its historical structures. Visitors can explore the fort's tunnel network, army kitchens, and cell blocks, and enjoy the panoramic views of St. George's, including the Melville Street Cruise Port and the Carenage. Guided tours are available, providing deeper insights into the fort's history and significance. The site is also used for private events through the Ministry of Tourism.
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the uneven terrain within the fort.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available.
- Consider a guided tour for in-depth historical insights into the fort's past.
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
-
Walking
From the St. George's cruise terminal, walk east along the Carenage. Turn left onto Melville Street and continue until you reach the main road. Turn left again, heading uphill towards Richmond Hill. Follow the signs for Fort Matthew. The walk is approximately 1.25 miles and should take about 25-30 minutes.
-
Public Transport
From the Carenage bus terminal in St. George's, take a minibus heading towards Grand Anse or St. Paul's. Inform the driver that you want to get off at the stop for Fort Matthew. From there, walk a short distance uphill following the signs. The bus fare is between EC$2.50 to EC$6.50 (US$0.92 to US$2.40), depending on the route.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available from the St. George's cruise terminal or any point in the city. A taxi ride to Fort Matthew from the cruise terminal will cost approximately EC$30-40 (US$11-15) and takes about 10-15 minutes.
