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Habitation Le Clerc

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Historical site
—°3
Habitation Le Clerc (Haiti)

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Habitation Le Clerc, located in the Martissant district of Port-au-Prince, is one of Haiti's most historic sites. Originally a wealthy 18th-century French plantation, it gained worldwide fame as the residence of Pauline Bonaparte, Napoleon's sister, during General Leclerc's expedition in 1801. The architecture of the complex reflects the opulent lifestyle of the colonial elite, which was built upon the exploitation of enslaved people. Following Haiti's independence, the property changed hands several times and fell into disrepair until it was transformed into a luxury hotel in the 20th century, attracting Hollywood stars and diplomats. However, this glamorous era ended with the political unrest of the 1980s. Today, Habitation Le Clerc is part of Martissant Park, an ecological and cultural project managed by the FOKAL foundation. The ruins of the colonial buildings are now located within a lush botanical garden, serving as a green lung for the capital and reminding visitors of the complex history between colonial splendor, revolutionary upheaval, and modern conservation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626272828292929282726
Rain mm191625376241386449755628

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The former residence of Pauline Bonaparte can be visited; the ruins of the mansion are accessible. The grounds are partly overgrown by tropical vegetation.
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Typical hours
There are no regular opening hours; visiting is possible during the day. Ask in the nearby village if there is a guard nearby who can open up.
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Photography
The romantically ruined residence is a paradise for photographers; photography is allowed. Watch out for snakes in the vegetation when approaching the walls.
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Time needed
About 30 minutes are enough for a walk around the ruins. Those who take time to reflect on Pauline Bonaparte's story can allow one hour.
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Combine with
Nearby are the Sans Souci Palace and the Citadel - all three sites can be visited in one day. The village of Milot is also worth a detour.
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Getting there
The residence is near Milot; from there it is reachable on foot or by moto-taxi. The road is unpaved but passable with any vehicle.
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Insider tip
Read a bit about the eccentric Pauline Bonaparte before your visit - it makes the place come alive. Bring insect repellent as the humidity is high.

Geography

Coordinates
18.52100, -72.29800

Facts

  • Pauline Bonaparte resided on the estate starting in 1801.
  • The site now encompasses about 15 hectares of parkland.
  • It was a famous luxury hotel during the 1970s.
  • The location hosts over 50 different species of trees.
  • The FOKAL foundation took over management in 2003.
  • It is situated in the densely populated Martissant district.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Haiti Learning and Teaching GardenHaiti Learning and Teaching Garden<1 km · SExplore →
Pétion-Ville Commercial HubPétion-Ville Commercial Hub1 km · NExplore →
Habitation MornayHabitation Mornay2 km · SEExplore →
Port-au-Prince Airport Cargo TerminalPort-au-Prince Airport Cargo Terminal2 km · EExplore →
Fort de la Rivière FroideFort de la Rivière Froide2 km · SExplore →
Fort OgéFort Ogé2 km · WExplore →
Fort JacquesFort Jacques2 km · NWExplore →
Place BowenPlace Bowen4 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Habitation Le Clerc (3)

Apostolic Nunciature to Haiti📍 landmark

The Apostolic Nunciature to Haiti is the Vatican embassy in Port-au-Prince, near Habitation Le Clerc.

St. Jean Bosco massacre📍 landmark

Site of the 1988 massacre at St. Jean Bosco church in Port-au-Prince.

Pétion-Ville📍 landmark

Pétion-Ville is an affluent suburb of Port-au-Prince, known for shops and embassies.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who was Le Clerc?
General Leclerc was Napoleon's brother-in-law, sent to suppress the revolution.
What can be visited today at the Habitation?
There are ruins of buildings and gardens, some of which are now private or overgrown.
How is the accessibility from Port-au-Prince?
It is located in the Martissant neighborhood; the drive can be busy and confusing.
Are there toilets there?
No, there are no public sanitary facilities on the grounds.
When should the site be visited?
Only during daylight hours and ideally accompanied by a local guide.
Habitation Le Clerc: where is it located?
Habitation Le Clerc is located in Haiti.
Habitation Le Clerc: what is there to see?
Highlights include Apostolic Nunciature to Haiti, St. Jean Bosco massacre, Pétion-Ville.
Habitation Le Clerc: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Habitation Le Clerc: why is it worth visiting?
Habitation Le Clerc, located in the Martissant district of Port-au-Prince, is one of Haiti's most historic sites.
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