Champ de Mars (Haiti) explained

Champ de Mars (Haitian Creole: Channmas) is the biggest public park in the downtown area of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. It consists of a series of public squares divided by large boulevards.[1]

History

For much of Port-au-Prince’s history Champ de Mars was used for military parades, until 1912 where it was remodelled into a racetrack with wrought-iron viewing stands facing the National Palace. Its current design is from 1999, when it was rebuilt to celebrate the city’s 250th anniversary.[2]

Champ de Mars was heavily affected by the 2010 earthquake and the National Palace destroyed. The area was fenced off for a period after.

Description

Champs de Mars contains a number of statues of Haiti's founding fathers, including Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, Alexander Pétion and Henri Christophe.[3]

The Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien featuring Haitian history, art and culture is located at Champ de Mars.

A government project providing free public WIFI in the area was inaugurated In October 2018.[4]

References

18.5435°N -72.3353°W

Notes and References

  1. Web site: The broken heart of Port-au-Prince: Champ de Mars · Visit Haiti. 2018-10-18. Visit Haiti. en-US. 2019-04-25.
  2. Book: Clammer, Paul.. Haiti. 2012. Bradt Travel Guides. 9781841624150. Chalfont St. Peter. 116. 801605883.
  3. Web site: Champs de Mars Port-Au-Prince & Around, Haiti Attractions. www.lonelyplanet.com. en. 2019-04-25.
  4. Web site: Haiti - Technology : The free internet a reality in the Champ de Mars - HaitiLibre.com : Haiti news 7/7. www.haitilibre.com. 2019-04-25.