Vieux Fort

Introduction

Vieux Fort is a town located near the southernmost point of Saint Lucia. It is named after a fort that used to watch out towards Saint Vincent towards the south. The population is about 4,500, while the surrounding district of Vieux Fort Quarter has a total population of about 16,000. In the 18th and 19th Centuries it used to be an important centre of the sugar industry in Saint Lucia before that industry declined. During World War II the Americans constructed an airfield called Beane Army Airfield. After the war it was subsequently expanded to form Hewanorra International Airport. Today, Vieux Fort is the main point of entry for Saint Lucia and also hosts a port just to the south of the town. It is also a major industrial area and also hosts other places such as St Jude's Hospital and the George Odlum Stadium.

Events and Festivals

• Independence Day - St Lucia celebrates its status as a new sovereign nation, becoming independent from Great Britain in 1979. St Lucians are very proud of their relatively new 33-year old country, and this is demonstrated in this public holiday. It is celebrated February 22 annually.

Keep Connected

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

External Links