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Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at Grenada's History

Explore Fort Frederick in Grenada: a historic bastion with panoramic views, unique architecture, and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.

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Fort Frederick, perched atop Richmond Hill, offers panoramic views of Grenada's capital, St. George's. Built by the French in the late 1700s and completed by the British, this remarkably preserved bastion never fired a shot in anger. Its unique 'backward-facing' design, with cannons pointed inland, reflects a defense strategy against land-based attacks.

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort involves some walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of St. George's and the coastline.
  • Take time to read the historical plaques for a deeper understanding of the fort's significance.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From St. George's, taxis are readily available. A taxi ride to Fort Frederick, located on Richmond Hill, typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Ensure the driver has a visible ID and agree on the fare beforehand. The estimated cost is $15 - $19 USD. Tipping the driver 10% is customary.

  • Public Transport

    From the St. George's bus terminal, take a local bus heading towards St. Paul's. Ask the driver to be dropped off near Fort Frederick on Richmond Hill. From the drop-off point, it's a short, uphill walk to the fort entrance. Bus fares are generally inexpensive, costing around $1 USD (XCD 2.70) for a short trip.

  • Walking

    For those who enjoy a walk, Fort Frederick is approximately 1.25 miles (2 km) east of St. George's. The walk uphill to Richmond Hill can be strenuous, but it offers scenic views of the town and harbor. Follow the road to St. Paul's, and look for signs indicating the turnoff to Fort Frederick.

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Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, located on Richmond Hill, stands as a testament to Grenada's colonial past and strategic importance. Constructed by the French in 1779 and finished by the British in 1783, the fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of St. George's, the Caribbean Sea, and the island's lush landscape. Interestingly, Fort Frederick never engaged in battle, making it one of the best-preserved bastions in the Caribbean. Its unique design, with cannons facing inland, earned it the nickname 'backward-facing fort'. This unusual layout was intended to defend against attacks from the land, recognizing the vulnerability demonstrated when the French initially captured the island from the British. Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved ramparts, gun emplacements, and underground tunnels, gaining insight into Grenada's military history. The site provides a glimpse into the power struggles between the French and British empires in the Caribbean. Fort Frederick also holds significance in Grenada's more recent history, having served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army during the 1979 revolution. From its elevated position, 244 meters (800 feet) above sea level, Fort Frederick offers stunning views of the Carenage, the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, and the rolling mountain ridges covered in vegetation. The fort is open to the public and provides a serene atmosphere where visitors can appreciate both the historical architecture and natural beauty of Grenada.

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