The Organization for the Management of the Northern Destination of Haiti (OGDNH) regrets to inform that the retaining wall of Fort Saint-Joseph located on Boulevard Carénag (Cap-Haitien), built between 1730 and 1745, one of the historical jewels of Haitian heritage, has partially collapsed, compromising the structural integrity of the fort.

This retaining wall had been showing cracks for several months and we had alerted the competent authorities. However, although identified as vulnerable for some time, it has unfortunately not benefited from the necessary conservation and restoration work. This situation increases the risks of a more serious collapse, which could lead to irreparable losses for this historic site.

Despite the considerable efforts made and the administrative structure put in place, the sustainability of the site remains compromised.

The OGDNH recalls that in 2022, Fort Saint-Joseph benefited from a major renovation, made possible thanks to an exemplary collaboration between the private sector of Cap-Haïtien, represented by Fatima Group, and the OGDNH, with the technical support of the National Heritage Preservation Institute (ISPAN) Video : https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-40250-icihaiti-tourism-fort-saint-joseph-is-officially-open-to-the-public-video.html

Faced with this situation, the OGDNH calls on the competent authorities, local and international organizations, as well as all citizens sensitive to the preservation of heritage, to mobilize for immediate intervention. Concerted action is necessary to:

• Stabilize the weakened areas of the fort;

• Proceed with the reconstruction work of the collapsed retaining wall;

• Strengthen surveillance and preventive maintenance mechanisms.

Every day that passes without prompt and appropriate intervention risks worsening the damage, increasing the cost of repairs and the certainty of losing a precious part of our national heritage. »

See also :

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-40250-icihaiti-tourism-fort-saint-joseph-is-officially-open-to-the-public-video.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37358-haiti-tourism-site-visits-of-reception-infrastructures.html

HL/ HaitiLibre