Cap Haitien

Cap-Haïtien, also known as Cape Haitien in English or “Le Cap,” is a dynamic commune situated on Haiti’s northern coast. With a population of over 274,000, it functions as the capital of the Nord department. This article examines the extensive history and cultural importance of Cap-Haïtien, a city frequently referred to as the Paris of the Antilles due to its architectural sophistication and creative vibrancy.

Historically referred to as Cap-Français and subsequently Cap-Henri during the reign of King Henri I, Cap-Haïtien served as the capital of the French Colony of Saint-Domingue. Established officially in 1711, it retained its position as the colonial capital until 1770, when the center of authority relocated to Port-au-Prince. Notwithstanding this transition, Cap-Haïtien prospered as a cultural and commercial center, acquiring its moniker due to the affluence and refinement it emanated.

Following Haiti’s independence, the city served as the capital of the Kingdom of Haiti under King Henri I until 1820. The city’s strategic location and relative isolation from Port-au-Prince, protected by mountainous obstacles, developed a lasting spirit of independence.

Cap-Haïtien had a rich history as a hub of revolutionary ideology. The remoteness from the central authority in Port-au-Prince and the substantial African population have fostered a legacy of resistance and autonomy. This became apparent in 2004 when militants opposing President Jean-Bertrand Aristide seized control of the city. Their endeavors ultimately compelled Aristide to vacate his position, highlighting Cap-Haïtien’s persistent legacy as a catalyst for transformation.

Milot, a town of historical significance, is located at 19 kilometers southwest of Cap-Haïtien. It served as the inaugural capital of Haiti under King Henri Christophe, who rebranded Cap-Français as Cap-Henri. Milot houses the Sans-Souci Palace, a formerly grand palace ravaged by an earthquake in 1842. The formidable Citadelle Laferrière serves as a tribute to Haiti’s military past. This colossal stronghold, situated on a mountain, is discernible from Cap-Haïtien on clear days and consistently draws tourists keen to investigate Haiti’s history.

Currently, Cap-Haïtien is served by a little international airport located on its southeastern periphery. The airport emerged as a vital hub after the 2010 earthquake and during the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), which saw the deployment of Chilean troops in the city. The airport was the sole operational international gateway following the 2024 shutdown of Toussaint Louverture International Airport due to gang violence. This circumstance resulted in considerable migration from the capital, exerting pressure on local infrastructure and the educational system.

In 2020, the demolition of Shada 2, a slum accommodating 1,500 residents, was pivotal in curtailing gang operations in Cap-Haïtien. This measure, however contentious, was integral to wider initiatives aimed at stabilizing the area and enhancing the living circumstances of its inhabitants.