THE HAITIAN HERITAGE AWARENESS NETWORK (H2AN)
CITADELLE LA FERRIERE
Built by King Henry Christophe as a
protection against a possible French invasion, the Citadel was an integral part
of the Haitian strategic defense to ensure the success of the Haitian
Revolution. The Citadel's construction started in 1805 and ended in 1820 with
King Henry's death. Until now it remains one of the most prestigious piece of
military architecture in the world. At 900 meters above sea level, covering an
area of one hectare, this cyclopean chef d'oeuvre dominates the entire northern
region where most of the historical events that will shape the history of the
area took place. Etienne Henry Barré is believed to be the architect.
The Citadel has one of the richest
collections of artillery in the world, more than 160 pieces from different
countries: France, Spain, England, etc. The most valuable ones are kept in a
wing of the edifice turned into a museum. The Citadel's renovation which
started in 1979 and ended in 1990 was made possible by the joint effort of the
Institut pour la Sauvegarde du Patrimoine National (ISPAN) and UNESCO. The Citadel in conjunction with the
"Site des Ramiers", and the Sans-Souci Palace is part of a historical
park covering an area of 25 square kilometers. Whether it is for historical,
military or architectural purposes, King Henry's Citadel has a lot to teach us.
It is a place of high historical achievement; a place where confronted with the
exploit of our past we can put our own lives in perspective.
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