More of The Morne

They say life can only be understood backwards. Whereas this truth can also be applied in a certain place’s identity—that what it is now, its people, its culture, and its looks are all remnants of the past. And to have a clearer grasp of anywhere, one must go beyond what can only be seen at the present—those that took place long time ago.

Sounds nostalgic? Well, it’s just a catch to get you ready for our featured location among the plenty St. Lucia attractions. Lying on the Southern side of Castries, St. Lucia’s capital, Morne Fortune or ‘The Morne’ is a hill and a residential area as well. It rises more than 800 feet above La Toc which is the Southern part of Castries. Since it is a hill, the views around it are all impressive—displaying St. Lucia’s eye-catching locations including the Castries Harbor. Also, situated at the Morne is the Government House, the residential home of the Governor General that dates back in history. 

The Accounts of the Past

Its name, Morne Fortune means ‘hill of good luck’ in its direct translation. However, the name seemed not to define the real essence of the place for it has stood as a battleground for several bloody fights between the French and English forces way back in the 18th and 19th centuries. The most popular battle then took place on the 24th of May, 1796 wherein the British forces captured the Morne from the French after an uphill struggle. In fact, a memorial monument was built for the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers that is still standing at this very moment. Several buildings that are constructed at the Mourne either owned by France or Britain are destroyed to ruins, but there are still historical remains that are being preserved in the area for visitors who would want a glimpse on St. Lucia’s history. These remains that stay standing are those that are built in the late 19th century. 

Relics for the Present

In the present time, Morne Fortune serves as the mirror of St. Lucia in the times elapsed. It is now surrounded with plenty of old fortifications, cannons, and gun emplacements left by the troupes that once inhabited the area. Other sights that you can visit are the French and British cemeteries, the Powder Magazine, the Guard Cells, the Morne Battery, the Prevost Redoubt, and also the University of the West Indies—St. Lucian Campus. Come and be amazed yourself how Morne Fortune has stood all the events in its history making it possible for us to study and to cherish it at the contemporary time.