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Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at History

Explore Fort Frederick in Grenada: A historic fort with stunning panoramic views of St. George's, offering a unique glimpse into the island's past.

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Perched atop Richmond Hill, Fort Frederick offers panoramic views of Grenada's capital, St. George's. Built by the French and completed by the British in the late 18th century, this remarkably preserved bastion never fired a shot in anger, earning it the nickname 'Backward Facing Fort'.

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the fort's uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking panoramic views of St. George's and the surrounding coastline.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
  • Combine your visit to Fort Frederick with a trip to nearby Fort Matthew for a comprehensive historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of St. George's, the walk to Fort Frederick is approximately 2 miles and uphill. Begin in the town square and head east, following the road as it ascends Richmond Hill. The walk offers scenic views of the town and harbor. Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour for the walk. There are no entrance costs associated with walking to the fort, but be prepared for a moderately strenuous uphill climb.

  • Public Transport

    From St. George's, local buses frequently travel to Richmond Hill. Look for buses with the 'Richmond Hill' route number. The bus fare is between EC$1.50 and EC$5. Ask the driver to drop you off near Fort Frederick. From the drop-off point, it's a short uphill walk to the fort's entrance. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in St. George's. A taxi ride to Fort Frederick from the town center costs approximately EC$20-EC$40. The journey takes around 10-15 minutes. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the ride. Taxis can drop you off directly at the entrance of the fort.

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Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, situated on Richmond Hill, stands as a testament to Grenada's colonial past and strategic importance. Construction began in 1779 by the French, who had seized Grenada from the British. Realizing the importance of fortifications to the east of St. George's, the French began building a series of forts, including Fort Frederick. However, the Treaty of Versailles in 1783 returned the island to British control, who then completed the fort. Named after Frederick, the Duke of York, the fort boasts a unique design with its cannons facing inland, a strategic decision that led to its moniker, the 'Backward Facing Fort'. This positioning was intended to defend against potential land-based attacks. Fort Frederick never saw battle. Today, visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved ramparts, barracks, and gun emplacements. The panoramic views from the fort are stunning, encompassing St. George's harbor, the azure Caribbean Sea, and the lush, mountainous interior of Grenada. Fort Frederick provides a tangible link to Grenada's history and offers a unique perspective on the island's beauty. During the 1979 Grenada Revolution, Fort Frederick served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army.

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