Haiti

Haiti occupies the western third of Hispaniola, sharing the Caribbean island with the Dominican Republic. Its revolution against slavery led to independence and the first Black republic. Haitian Creole and French are official languages, while mountainous interiors, coastal plains and islands frame a distinctive cultural landscape.

Haiti’s cultural landscape connects urban art and architecture with rural traditions and religious life. Memories of enslavement, resistance and independence shape museums and historic places as well as painting, music and community celebrations. Coastal towns, mountain villages and local markets reveal different facets of a living society whose identity extends beyond individual landmarks. Show more

In the north, Cap-Haïtien and nearby Milot provide historical context for the UNESCO-listed National History Park with the Citadelle Laferrière, Sans-Souci Palace and Ramiers. Gonaïves is associated with the declaration of independence. The capital Port-au-Prince is known for its Gingerbread architecture and visual arts, while Croix-des-Bouquets has a tradition of cut-metal sculpture.

Jacmel combines historic architecture, papier-mâché carnival masks and the nearby Bassin Bleu waterfalls. Les Cayes, Port-Salut and Île-à-Vache represent the southern coast and offshore islands. Kenscoff and Furcy mark cooler highlands, while La Visite and Macaya national parks protect mountain habitats and endemic wildlife. These places illustrate the country’s geographic variety.

Painting, Konpa music and dance, Rara processions and Vodou as a living religion shape cultural life. Saut-d'Eau is associated with pilgrimage traditions that require respect for worshippers and consent for photography. Food traditions include griot and pikliz, while soup joumou symbolises freedom and shared identity. Hurricanes, flooding and earthquakes form part of the island’s natural context.

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