
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Port-au-Prince, Haiti
1. Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien
A museum housing Haiti's history and artifacts, including the tomb of founding father Jean-Jacques Dessalines.
- Unique Artifacts: Displays a unique collection of Haitian art, artwork, and artifacts.
- Historical Significance: Provides insight into Haiti's rich historical past.
- Tomb of Dessalines: Offers the opportunity to pay respects at the tomb of Haiti's founding father.
2. Chapelle Saint-Louis-de-Gonzague
An unusual church with a distinctive blue and white color scheme, surrounded by vibrant markets.
- Colorful Facade: Stands out due to its striking blue and white striped design.
- Market Surroundings: Located amidst bustling local markets, providing a unique shopping experience.
- Charming Interior: Features a serene and peaceful interior, making it a welcome escape from the busy market streets.
3. Musee de la Pepperjohn
A museum dedicated to Haitian artist Philomé Obin, featuring his whimsical artwork.
- Whimsical Artwork: Showcases the unique and imaginative art of Philomé Obin.
- Haitian Artist: Highlights the life and work of a prominent Haitian artist.
- Artistic Inspiration: Inspires creativity and encourages appreciation for local art.
4. Rue du Cap-Haïtien
A vibrant street filled with colorful buildings, street performers, and local food vendors.
- Street Performances: Offers daily performances by local artists and musicians.
- Colorful Architecture: Features an array of brightly colored buildings along the street.
- Authentic Haitian Cuisine: Allows travelers to sample local delicacies from various food vendors.
5. Cite Soleil
A large settlement often referred to as a city within Port-au-Prince, known for its colorful homes and lively atmosphere.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Offers a lively, energetic environment filled with music and dancing.
- Colorful Homes: Features homes painted in a variety of bright colors, creating a picturesque scene.
- Community Initiatives: Provides opportunities for travelers to engage with and support local community initiatives.
6. Musee du Peintre-Rousseau
A museum dedicated to the life and work of Haitian artist Henri Rousseau.
- Henri Rousseau's Art: Showcases the unique and captivating art of Henri Rousseau.
- Haitian Artist: Highlights the life and work of a prominent Haitian artist.
- Jungle-Inspired Artwork: Features jungle-inspired artwork that reflects Rousseau's love for nature.
7. Place Sainte-Pierre
A lively square surrounded by colorful buildings and local vendors.
- Colorful Architecture: Showcases an array of brightly colored buildings.
- Local Market: Offers a variety of local goods, from art and crafts to food items.
- Lively Atmosphere: Provides an energetic and bustling environment filled with music and people.
8. Rue de Fer
A street lined with iron shops, showcasing the artistry of Haitian metalworkers.
- Iron Artisans: Highlights the skill and craftsmanship of Haitian metalworkers.
- Iron Artwork: Showcases unique and intricate iron artwork.
- Shopping Opportunities: Offers opportunities to purchase handcrafted iron items as souvenirs.
9. Musee du Cinema Haitien
A museum dedicated to the history of Haitian cinema, featuring film screenings and exhibits.
- Haitian Film History: Provides insight into the development of Haitian cinema.
- Film Screenings: Offers opportunities to watch classic and contemporary Haitian films.
- Exhibits and Artifacts: Displays film props, costumes, and other artifacts related to the history of Haitian cinema.
10. Boukanman Dessalines Statue
A statue of Haiti's founding father Jean-Jacques Dessalines dressed as a voodoo priest.
- Voodoo Iconography: Represents Dessalines in the traditional attire of a voodoo priest.
- Historical Figure: Honors Haiti's founding father and symbolizes his connection to the Vodou religion.
- Unique Sculpture: Features a striking and unusual sculptural representation of Dessalines.
11. Marche de Pintade
A bustling market selling live chickens, herbs, and traditional Haitian medicinal remedies.
- Live Chickens: Offers the unique experience of purchasing live chickens.
- Traditional Remedies: Allows travelers to learn about traditional Haitian medicinal practices.
- Local Herbs and Spices: Provides opportunities to sample and purchase local herbs and spices.
12. La Citadelle Laferrière
A massive fortress built in the early 19th century to protect Haiti from foreign invasions.
- Military History: Provides insight into Haiti's military history and strategic defense.
- Architectural Marvel: Showcases impressive stone architecture and engineering feats.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
13. Fort Jacques
A fortress built in the early 18th century to protect Cap-Haïtien from pirate attacks.
- Pirate History: Highlights the history of piracy and its impact on Cap-Haïtien.
- Impressive Architecture: Showcases beautiful stone architecture and military design.
- Historic Landmark: Serves as a historical landmark and testament to the city's resilience against pirates.
14. Musee du Voodoo
A museum dedicated to Haitian Vodou religion, showcasing its history, practices, and artifacts.
- Voodoo History: Provides insight into the history of Vodou in Haiti.
- Artifacts and Exhibits: Displays a variety of artifacts, tools, and other items related to Vodou practices.
- Understanding Voodoo: Offers an opportunity to learn about the beliefs, traditions, and rituals of Vodou.
15. Musee de la Danse Haitienne
A museum dedicated to the history and evolution of Haitian dance, featuring live performances.
- Haitian Dance History: Highlights the development and influence of traditional Haitian dances.
- Live Performances: Offers opportunities to watch live dance performances showcasing various styles.
- Dance Education: Provides insights into the cultural significance of Haitian dance and its role in society.