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Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at History

Explore Fort Frederick in Grenada: A historic fort offering breathtaking panoramic views of St. George's and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.

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Perched atop Richmond Hill, Fort Frederick offers panoramic views of St. George's, Grenada. Built by the French and completed by the British between 1779 and 1783, this well-preserved bastion never fired a shot in anger, earning it the nickname 'Backward Facing Fort' for its inland-facing cannons. Explore its ramparts and soak in the breathtaking scenery.

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

Local tips

  • Visit during the day for the best views of St. George's and the surrounding coastline.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort's ramparts and historical grounds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views and well-preserved architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of St. George's, the walk to Fort Frederick is approximately 2 miles and takes around 45 minutes. The route involves a steady uphill climb via winding roads. Use the local landmarks and the direction of Richmond Hill as a guide. Be prepared for a moderately strenuous walk.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses (route 1) frequently run from St. George's to Richmond Hill. From the bus stop on Richmond Hill, it's a short uphill walk to the fort. The bus fare is approximately EC$2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in St. George's. A taxi ride to Fort Frederick from the town center takes about 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay around EC$30-40 for the ride. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, majestically situated on Richmond Hill, provides stunning views of St. George's harbor and stands as a testament to Grenada's rich history. Constructed during the late 18th century amid the power struggles between the French and British, the fort was started by the French in 1779 and finished by the English in 1783. It is considered one of the best-preserved bastions in the Caribbean. Interestingly, Fort Frederick never engaged in combat, which is why it is often called the 'Backward Facing Fort'. This is because its cannons were strategically positioned to face inland rather than towards the sea. From its vantage point 244 meters (800 feet) above sea level, visitors are treated to unparalleled panoramic views of Grenada's landscape, including the azure Caribbean Sea, lush mountains, and charming houses. During the 1979 Grenada Revolution, Fort Frederick served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army. The fort also has ties to King Henry Christophe, a key leader in the Haitian Revolution, who is said to have worked as a slave on the island before stowing away to Haiti. Exploring Fort Frederick offers insights into Grenada's military past and colonial history, making it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

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