Carrefour, Haiti
Region: Ouest
Geographic Coordinates: 18.534400, -72.409400
Climate: Unavailable.
Population: 511345
Language: Haitian Creole
Carrefour is a bustling city located in the Ouest department of Haiti, Just south of the capital city, Port-au-Prince. With a population of over 500, 000 people, It is one of the largest cities in Haiti. Carrefour is known for its vibrant marketplaces and its thriving economy. The city’s economy thrives on agriculture and trade. Many residents are farmers who grow crops such as rice, Corn, Beans, And sugarcane. The marketplaces in Carrefour are also a major source of income for many residents; vendors sell everything from fresh produce to clothing to electronics.
Despite its economic success, Carrefour faces many challenges. Overcrowding and poverty are major issues that plague the city; many residents live in cramped conditions without access to basic necessities like clean water or healthcare. The 2010 earthquake that devastated much of Haiti also had a significant impact on Carrefour; many buildings were destroyed or severely damaged during the earthquake leaving thousands homeless. In recent years efforts have been made to rebuild and revitalize Carrefour; non-profit organizations have worked with local leaders to provide aid and support to those affected by the earthquake.
Efforts have also been made to improve infrastructure such as roads and bridges. Despite these challenges there is much to appreciate about Carrefour’s rich culture and history; the city has a strong music scene with many talented musicians performing at local venues throughout the year. The food in Carrefour is also something not to be missed – traditional Haitian dishes like griot (fried pork) and diri kole ak pwa (rice with beans) can be found at restaurants throughout the city.
Overall while there are certainly challenges facing this vibrant Haitian city today it remains an important part of Haiti’s cultural landscape – offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Haitian life beyond what they may see elsewhere on their travels through this beautiful Caribbean nation.
- Place d’Armes – a historic public square located in the heart of Carrefour.
- Saint Antoine de Padoue Church – a beautiful Catholic church constructed in the 19th century.
- Fort Jacques – a historic fortress built by the Haitian army during the early 1800s.
- Parc Historique de la Canne à Sucre – a museum and park dedicated to Haiti’s sugar cane industry.
- Musee National Pantheon – a museum that showcases Haitian history and culture.
- Bassin Bleu Waterfall – a stunning waterfall situated just outside of Carrefour.
- Croix-des-Bouquets Market – an open-air market renowned for its metalwork handicrafts made by local artisans.
- Marché en Fer (Iron Market) – An iconic covered market selling everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs.
- Centre Artisanal de la Rue Rebecca – A popular artisanal center where visitors can purchase handcrafted items such as jewelry, paintings, sculptures and more.
- Port-au-Prince Cathedral – The largest cathedral in Haiti which was destroyed during the earthquake but is still considered as one of the most important landmarks in Port-au-Prince area.
- Carrefour, Haiti is a densely populated area situated on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, the capital city of Haiti.
- The major industries and businesses in Carrefour include:
- Retail
- Agriculture
- Transportation
- Manufacturing
- Services
- Retail is a significant contributor to the economy of Carrefour with several small shops and street vendors selling various products such as food items, clothing, electronics and household goods.
- The agricultural sector in Carrefour is also thriving with farmers growing crops such as rice, beans, corn, vegetables and fruits in surrounding areas.
- Due to its location near Port-au-Prince, Carrefour serves as a hub for transportation services such as taxis and buses that transport people to other parts of the country.
- There are also some small-scale manufacturing units in Carrefour that produce goods like furniture and handicrafts.
- Several service-based businesses operate in Carrefour including:
- Healthcare facilities like clinics and hospitals
- Educational institutions like schools
- Financial institutions like banks
- Government offices providing public services to residents
- Overall, retail trade activities drive the economy of Carrefour with a significant contribution from agriculture followed by transportation services.
- The Battle of Vertières: Carrefour played a significant role in the final battle of the Haitian Revolution, known as the Battle of Vertières. On November 18, 1803, Haitian forces led by General Jean-Jacques Dessalines defeated French troops at Vertières, which is located near Carrefour.
- François Duvalier: François Papa Doc Duvalier was a former president and dictator of Haiti who was born in Port-au-Prince but spent much of his early life in Carrefour. He used terror and violence to maintain his grip on power from 1957 until his death in 1971.
- Earthquake of 2010: In January 2010, a devastating earthquake struck Haiti that killed over 200,000 people and left many more homeless. Carrefour was one of the areas most affected by the earthquake.
- Michel Martelly: Michel Martelly is a former president of Haiti who was born in Port-au-Prince but spent much of his childhood in Carrefour.
- Hurricane Matthew: In October 2016, Hurricane Matthew hit Haiti causing widespread damage and loss of life across several regions including Carrefour.
- The National Palace massacre: In December 1980 during Jean-Claude Duvalier’s regime (son to Papa Doc), soldiers opened fire on protesters outside the National Palace killing an estimated number between dozens to hundreds including children; this event has been referred to as one among many massacres committed during Tonton Macoutes reign over Haiti.
- Musée Ogier-Fombrun: This museum displays various artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Haiti.
- Centre d’Art: This art center is a platform for Haitian artists to exhibit their work and also offers workshops for visitors.
- Fort Jacques: This historic fort was constructed in the early 19th century and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
- Parc National La Visite: This national park is home to diverse flora and fauna as well as hiking trails for visitors to explore.
- Place Boyer: Toussaint Louverture’s statue is featured in this public square which played an essential role in Haiti’s fight for independence.
- Église Sainte-Anne de Carrefour: This church dates back to the early 20th century and features stunning stained glass windows.
- Marché de Fer (Iron Market): Located nearby Port-au-Prince, this market is famous for its vibrant colors and eclectic goods sold by local vendors.
- Maison Cadet: Built-in late 18th century this historic mansion now serves as a cultural center showcasing Haitian art and history.
It’s important to note that some areas of Carrefour may be unsafe due to crime or political instability; therefore it’s essential always to research travel safety tips before visiting any destination abroad.
- Carnival: The carnival is a colorful and vibrant festival celebrated every year in February or March before Lent.
- Fête de la Musique: This music festival is held annually on June 21st and features live performances by Haitian musicians.
- Festival Soleil: This annual festival celebrates Haitian culture through music, dance, art, and food.
- Jacmel Film Festival: This film festival showcases Haitian cinema as well as international films from around the world.
- Artisanal Fair of Croix-des-Bouquets: This fair features handmade crafts made by local artisans from all over Haiti.
- National Day of Flag and University Games: These two events are held on May 18th to celebrate the country’s flag day and promote sportsmanship among university students respectively.
- Griot: This is a traditional Haitian dish made with fried pork shoulder. It is often served with rice and beans.
- Tassot: Another popular Haitian dish that consists of fried or roasted meat (usually beef or goat) served with plantains and pikliz (a spicy vegetable relish).
- Riz Djon-Djon: A unique Haitian rice dish made with black mushrooms called djon-djon.
- Chez Yvonne: A popular restaurant in Carrefour known for its grilled chicken and seafood dishes.
- Resto La Belle Etoile: This restaurant serves a variety of Haitian dishes including griot, tassot, and seafood platters.
- Le Perroquet Bleu: A fine dining restaurant located in the Karibe Hotel that serves French-inspired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- Boukanye Restaurant Bar & Grill: This casual eatery offers a range of Haitian dishes as well as American-style burgers and sandwiches.
- Cafe Choisy Bakery & Restaurant: Known for its fresh-baked breads and pastries, this bakery also serves breakfast items like omelets and pancakes as well as lunch specials like griot sandwiches.
- Le Massif Restaurant & Lounge Bar: This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Caribbean and international cuisines along with live music performances on weekends.
- Royal Oasis Hotel’s La Cour des Lions Restaurant: Offers gourmet French cuisine alongside traditional Caribbean fare such as jerk chicken or grilled fish fillet.
- Parc de la Paix – a public park with a playground, walking trails, and a lake for fishing and boating.
- Parc des Fleurs – a botanical garden with over 200 species of plants and flowers.
- Parc Sainte-Thérèse – a community park with basketball courts, soccer fields, and picnic areas.
- Centre Sportif de Carrefour – a sports complex that offers soccer, basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts.
- Plage du Village – a beach located on the outskirts of Carrefour that is popular for swimming and sunbathing.
- Kayak Haiti – an adventure company that offers kayaking tours on the nearby rivers and lakes.
- Les Cayes Beach Club – an exclusive beach club located in nearby Les Cayes that offers swimming pools, water sports activities, and restaurants.
- Musée d’Art Haïtien du Collège Saint-Pierre – an art museum showcasing Haitian art from various periods including the early 20th century to present day Haitian artists such as Wilson Bigaud’s work which depicts rural life in Haiti.
