Port-au-Prince, the historic and cultural capital of Haiti, carries with it more than 276 years of history (2025) of resilience and creativity. The Town Hall highlights the essential landmarks which tell the story of the evolution of the city, its foundation, its identity, its symbols and its central place in national life.

Foundation :

It was on November 26, 1749 that the ordinance of the founding of Port-au-Prince was ratified by the King of France, giving the city its legal and official status. Port-au-Prince celebrates its foundation every year on June 13, a day placed under the protection of Saint Anthony of Padua, patron saint of the city.

The name Port-au-Prince :

The name comes from the ship "Le Prince", which anchored in the bay in the 18th century.

Former capital moved :

Before 1749, the capital of Haiti was Cap-Français (the former name of Cap-Haitien). Port-au-Prince was chosen for its strategic position.

A city designed for commerce :

From its creation, Port-au-Prince became a major commercial center, thanks to its natural port.

Morne l’Hôpital, a historic heart :

The first urban core developed at the foot of Morne l’Hôpital, symbol of the birth of the capital.

The Champ de Mars :

The Champ de Mars, built in the 19th century, is the largest public space in the city and an essential historical site.

Port-au-Prince, capital of Haiti :

After independence, Port-au-Prince remained the political, cultural and economic capital of the country. City of artists, music, dance, and painting, Port-au-Prince is a cultural pillar of Haiti.

A resilient city :

Port-au-Prince has recovered from multiple crises: earthquakes, fires, instability. Her resilience is part of her identity.

Port-au-Prince today :

The city has more than a million inhabitants over 36 km² and has been led since December 24, 2024 by Mayor Ralph Youri Chevry.

IH/ iciHaiti