A Cultural Route in Basse-Terre: Museums, Art Galleries and Historic Buildings

Basse-Terre is the capital of the island of Guadeloupe and also part of the French Overseas Territory. This beautiful Carribean city offers visitors a rich cultural experience. Discover an unforgettable cultural route in Basse-Terre with its museums, art galleries and historic buildings.

museums

There are several interesting museums that you can visit in Basse-Terre. In these museums, you can find the opportunity to learn more about the history, culture and art of Guadeloupe. Here are some prominent museums:

• Musée du Café: This museum showcases Guadeloupe’s coffee industry and the influence of coffee on the island. You can visit this museum to tour the coffee plantations and learn about the coffee making process.
• Musée Schoelcher: You can visit this museum to learn about the life and work of Victor Schoelcher. He was a French politician who fought to abolish slavery and is commemorated in this museum.
• Musée Saint-John Perse: This museum was established in memory of a famous poet named Saint-John Perse. You can learn about his life, works and contributions to Guadeloupe literature.

Art Galleries

Art galleries in Basse-Terre showcase works by local and international artists. You can visit these galleries and enjoy modern and classical art. Here are some art galleries you might want to visit:

• Galerie l’Artchipel: This gallery is Guadeloupe’s largest art centre. Paintings, sculptures and other works of art by local and international artists are displayed here. It also hosts theater plays and concerts.
• Galerie Exp’Art: This gallery, where the works of local artists are exhibited, is a place where Guadeloupe culture meets art. Here you can see paintings and crafts made in different techniques.

Historical buildings

Basse-Terre is a city rich in history and is home to many historic buildings. You can visit these buildings and witness the past of the city. Here are the historical buildings we recommend you to see in Basse-Terre:

Building Description Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur Built in 1782, the cathedral was built in the Gothic style and is the oldest church in Guadeloupe. Fort Delgrès This historic fort was the headquarters of the local military unit, the Légitime Forces, which fought against Napoléon Bonaparte in 1802. Guadeloupe Museum Built as a government building in 1932, this building was converted into a museum in the 1980s and showcases the history of Guadeloupe.

You can take guided tours of Basse-Terre or explore the city on your own. Whichever option you choose, following this cultural route will give you the opportunity to better understand the island’s rich history and art.

Top 5 Cultural Museums in Basse-Terre

In this article, we will explore the 5 best cultural museums in Basse-Terre, the capital city of Guadeloupe. These museums provide an excellent opportunity to understand the history and culture of this Caribbean island with its rich historical and cultural heritage. Here are the top 5 museums you should visit:

1. Schoelcher Museum

The Schoelcher Museum in Basse-Terre is a museum dedicated to the memory of French abolitionist activist Victor Schoelcher. This museum offers a mix of history, art and culture unique to the island. Interesting exhibits, documents and artifacts are displayed here. It is important to visit this museum to understand the life of Victor Schoelcher and the history of slavery.

2. Vive Kreyol Ethnobotanical Museum

This museum offers information on medicinal, aromatic and exotic uses of plants growing in the Caribbean islands. Visitors can explore a botanical garden containing thousands of plant varieties and learn about their use in traditional medicine and the beauty industry. The Vivé Kreyol Ethnobotanical Museum offers visitors the chance to understand the unique relationship the Caribbean people have with plants.

3. Leroy Coridon History Museum

The Leroy Coridon History Museum is housed in one of the oldest historic houses in Basse-Terre. This museum showcases the history of Guadeloupe through a variety of materials, photographs and documents. Visitors can learn about the culture of the island’s native Arawak and Caribbean tribes, the French colonial period, and the history of slavery. Leroy Coridon History Museum is an ideal base for those wishing to explore Guadeloupe’s historical past.

4. Guadeloupe Museum of Fine Arts

The Guadeloupe Museum of Fine Arts in Basse-Terre is a major museum displaying artworks in the Caribbean region. The museum contains works by artists born or worked in Guadeloupe and other Caribbean islands. Various works of art can be found here, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and textile work. The Guadeloupe Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit museum to understand the roots and development of Caribbean art.

5. An Ka Fèt Museum

The An Ka Fèt Museum focuses on the French colonial period and the history of slavery. This museum highlights the persecution of slavery and the living conditions of slaves. Visitors can visit this museum to understand the life and resilience of slaves. The An Ka Fèt Museum reminds visitors of the brutal realities of the slavery era, as well as explaining how it was possible to get out of this era.

Museum Name Highlights Schoelcher Museum Vivé Kreyol Ethnobotanical Museum dedicated to Victor Schoelcher’s abolitionist activism Offers information on medicinal and beauty uses of Caribbean herbs Leroy Coridon History Museum Displays the history of Guadeloupe and indigenous culture Guadeloupe Museum of Fine Arts A museum of Caribbean art An Ka Fèt Its Museum focuses on the Slavery era and chronicles the resistance of the slaves.

These 5 museums in Basse-Terre are must-visit points to understand Guadeloupe’s rich history and culture. Each museum contributes to the history and cultural heritage of the island by offering a different perspective. By visiting these museums, you can better grasp the colorful and complex past of the Caribbean islands.

Basse-Terre’s Majestic Historic Buildings

Basse-Terre is a summer village in the Caribbean, the main island of Guadeloupe. This beautiful island is also famous for its historical buildings. Visitors have the opportunity to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage while exploring the historic structures in Basse-Terre.

1. Cathedral of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul

The most important buildings in Basse-Terre are undoubtedly Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul Cathedral. It is located in the heart of the island and was built in the 17th century. Its magnificent façade in the Rococo style enchants visitors.

• The interior of the cathedral also draws attention. It is breathtaking with its high ceilings, detailed carvings and impressive stained glass windows.
• It took many years to restore the cathedral, which was damaged in an earthquake in 1784. However, the artifacts found during the restoration work in and around the cathedral after this tragic event have made a valuable contribution to the historical and cultural heritage of the island.

2. Villele House

The Villèle House is another magnificent historical building in Basse-Terre. This building was built as one of the residences of the French court and wealthy families. Reflecting the lifestyle and social hierarchy, this house now serves as a museum.

• Villèle House draws attention with its elegant interior design and original furniture of its period. Visitors embark on a journey through the French colonial era as they discover the rich history of this house.
• The garden around the house is also worth seeing. This beautiful landscape offers a relaxing atmosphere with a variety of plant species.

3. Montserrat Observatory

The Montserrat Observatory is located in Basse-Terre, which is famous for its many natural attractions on the island. This observatory is an important place for scientific research and offers visitors interesting information about astronomy.

• Montserrat Observatory is a modern observatory. Here you can study stars, planets and other astronomical phenomena with the help of telescopes.
• At the same time, the natural landscapes around the observatory are fascinating. Famous for its tropical forests, mountains and natural beauty, your walks around this historic building will take you on a fascinating adventure.

4. Basse-Terre Historical Museum

The Basse-Terre History Museum represents another highlight of the island’s rich history. This museum brings Basse-Terre’s past to life through historical artifacts, documents and other interesting objects.

• The museum offers visitors a historical journey. During this trip, you can discover in-depth knowledge of the island and learn more about the lifestyle, traditions and cultural heritage of the islanders.
• In addition, artifacts unearthed during the archaeological excavations around the museum are also exhibited. In this way, visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the life and history of the indigenous people of the island.

Conclusion

Basse-Terre’s historic buildings reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage and past. By visiting these important structures, you can explore the historical and cultural fabric of the island and have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful Caribbean destination.

The Secret Paradises of Basse-Terre

Basse-Terre is a less explored paradise compared to Grande-Terre, the central island of Guadeloupe. With its natural beauties, historical and cultural riches, this island is an excellent option for a cultural trip. Exploring the hidden paradises of Basse-Terre provides an unforgettable experience.

1. Guadeloupe National Park

Basse-Terre is home to the national park of Guadeloupe, one of the smallest countries in the world. This park is famous for its geographical diversity and offers many different natural habitats. The rainforests in the park, waterfalls, volcanoes and beaches adorned with beautiful beaches are a natural wonder.

You can take a walk in the park, take part in nature walks and observe various plant and animal species with a guide. Guadeloupe National Park is the perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

2. La Soufriere Volcano

One of Basse-Terre’s most important natural attractions is La Soufrière Volcano. This active volcano is the highest point on the island with an altitude of 1467 meters. You should definitely visit Le Parc des Mamelles de Guadeloupe, a region located at the foot of the volcano and famous for its unique vegetation.

You can explore the natural and historical heritage while climbing La Soufrière. You can watch the unique views by walking along the slope and have the opportunity to swim in the crater lake on the volcano. This impressive natural wonder is an indispensable travel destination for nature lovers.

3. Carbet Falls

Basse-Terre is also famous for its Carbet Falls. These three waterfalls line a forested hiking route and offer visitors an amazing natural beauty. The first waterfall is known as “Les Chutes du Carbet” at 115 meters high and is the largest one.

You can experience the power of nature by walking in Carbet Waterfalls and enjoy swimming in its cool waters. There are also picnic opportunities around the waterfalls. Anyone going to Basse-Terre is a must visit Carbet Falls.

4. Prison Island – Îles des Saintes

Just a 20-minute boat ride from Basse-Terre, Îles des Saintes is famous for its elegant beaches and historical fabric. These islands are a holiday paradise with their stunning landscapes and crystal clear waters.

Here you can visit the historic Fort Napoléon, relax on the magnificent beaches, go snorkeling and taste local delicacies. The Îles des Saintes is a hidden gem of the Caribbean islands and an essential part of a visit to Basse-Terre for a cultural outing.

5. Le Jardin Botanique de Deshaies

Another must-visit place during a trip to Basse-Terre is Le Jardin Botanique de Deshaies. This magnificent botanical garden was established in 1989 by the famous actor Michel Gaillard.

This garden features tropical plants as well as exotic animals. You can explore the beauties of nature in this garden by walking and observe the colorful tropical plants closely. Le Jardin Botanique de Deshaies is an ideal place for those who want to learn about the vegetation and naturalness of the island.

SN Place Must Sees 1 Guadeloupe National Park Rainforest, waterfalls, beautiful beaches 2 La Soufrière Volcano Crater lake swimming, historical heritage 3 Carbet Falls Picnic, swimming, nature walks 4 Prison Island – Îles des Saintes Beaches, diving, historic sites 5 Le Jardin Botanique de Deshaies Tropical plants, exotic animals

The hidden paradises of Basse-Terre offer unique experiences for nature lovers, adventure seekers and cultural excursionists. With its natural beauties and historical texture, this island offers an unforgettable journey and discovery.

Walking Route in the Heart of Culture and Art in Basse-Terre

Basse-Terre is a charming city on the Caribbean island of which is the capital of Guadeloupe. This city is famous for its fascinating natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Basse-Terre offers many interesting spots for culture and art enthusiasts. You can take a journey towards the cultural and artistic heart of the city by planning a walking route in the region.

1. Musee du Café

You can start your walking route with the Musée du Café. This museum provides information on the production and trade of coffee, which has an important place in the history of Basse-Terre. Inside the museum are interesting exhibits describing the coffee growing process. You can also do coffee tasting and try various types of coffee.

2. Saint-Pierre Cathedral

Your next stop should be Saint-Pierre Cathedral. This magnificent gothic-style cathedral is Basse-Terre’s most important religious building. The detailed stained glass windows and frescoes in its interior are dazzling. You can take time to attend religious ceremonies held at the cathedral or to pray in silence.

3. Parc des Roches Gravees

The next stop should be Parc des Roches Gravées. This open-air museum is a unique space where stone inscriptions of the Arawak tribe, the indigenous people of the island, are exhibited. These inscriptions represent an important part of Arawak culture. During a walk in the park, you can discover these historical stone inscriptions and learn more about the lifestyle of the locals.

4. Memorial ACTe

Your next stop should be Memorial ACTe, the heart of culture and art. This modern museum chronicles the history and impact of the transatlantic slave trade. In the museum where this historical tragedy is commemorated, there are interactive exhibits and animations. There are also various artistic events and events related to Guadeloupe’s slavery era.

5. Jardin Botanique de Deshaies

The last stop of your route should be Jardin Botanique de Deshaies. This stunning botanical garden is full of colorful flowers and exotic plants. Take time to take a walk in these beauties and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauties of the city. The garden also features sculptures and artworks by local artists.

Table:

Stop Description Musée du Café Basse-Terre is a museum about the importance of coffee in history. Cathedral of Saint-Pierre A cathedral built in the gothic style with a dazzling interior. Parc des Roches Gravées is an open-air museum displaying historical stone inscriptions belonging to the Arawak tribe. Memorial ACTe is a modern museum that chronicles the history and impact of the Transatlantic slave trade. Jardin Botanique de Deshaies A fascinating botanical garden full of colorful flowers and exotic plants.

Overall, Basse-Terre has many interesting spots waiting to be discovered for culture and art enthusiasts. Along this walking route, you will discover Basse-Terre more deeply, with its rich cultural heritage and fascinating natural beauty. Take time to experience this route to create unforgettable memories!

Best Art Galleries in Basse-Terre

In Search of Art: The Best Art Galleries in Basse-Terre

Basse-Terre is the capital city on the Island of Guadeloupe and this Caribbean island is famous for its arts and culture scene. In this article, we will explore the best art galleries in Basse-Terre. These galleries are filled with works by local and international artists, offering visitors different artistic experiences.

1. Memorial ACTe

Memorial ACTe is a museum that showcases important events in Caribbean history. As both an art and history-oriented gallery, it houses many different works of art. This gallery is the perfect place to understand Guadeloupe’s history and experience Caribbean culture.

Gallery Name Address Telephone Number Memorial ACTe Rue Raspail, Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe 590 590 25 16 00

2. Center des Métiers d’Art

Center des Métiers d’Art is a gallery that hosts exhibitions by local artists. This gallery focuses on Guadeloupe’s local crafts and showcases the talents of local artisans to visitors. Here you can explore different craft disciplines such as handmade ceramics, wood carving and textile crafting.

Gallery Name Address Telephone Number Center des Métiers d’Art Route de l’Hermitage, Morne-à-l’Eau, Guadeloupe 590 590 24 20 20

3. Galerie Saint-John Perse

Galerie Saint-John Perse is one of Guadeloupe’s most important art galleries. This place is home to modern and contemporary art. Its rich collection presents a combination of works by local and international artists. The gallery allows art lovers to explore different art movements.

Gallery Name Address Telephone Number Galerie Saint-John Perse Place de la Victoire, Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe 590 590 80 37 33

4. Espace Camille Darsières

Espace Camille Darsières is an arts space that hosts exhibitions by local and national artists. The large gallery space offers the opportunity to explore different art disciplines. The exhibits pay homage to local culture and natural beauty.

Gallery Name Address Telephone Number Espace Camille Darsières 1 Rue de la Liberté, Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe 590 590 81 00 06

5. Daneye Art Gallery

Daneye Art Gallery is a gallery that focuses on contemporary Caribbean art. Artifacts are influenced by different cultures in South America, Africa and the Caribbean islands. This gallery collaborates with international artists to offer art lovers a variety of artistic experiences.

Gallery Name Address Telephone Number Daneye Art Gallery 20 Rue Achille René Boisneuf, Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe 590 590 38 06 66

These art galleries in Basse-Terre offer many options that cater to the artistic tastes of local and international art lovers. You can explore the Caribbean island’s vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting these galleries.

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