History and Heritage of Martinique

A major sailing event, the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR 2025 will set sail from Le Havre to Martinique. As an official partner, Europcar Martinique is supporting this human and maritime adventure.

The Journées du Patrimoine 2024 in Martinique will take place on September 21 and 22, with the theme “Patrimoine des itinéraires, des réseaux et des connexions”. Visitors will be able to explore historic sites usually closed to the public, such as Fort Saint-Louis and the Volcanological Observatory.

Explore the maritime excitement of the Transat Jacques Vabre and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of this world-renowned sailing adventure. Discover the top sailing teams and follow the thrill of the competition as the yachts vie for victory in this iconic event.

The UNESCO World Heritage sites of Montagne Pelée and Pitons de la Martinique form an impressive duo in the heart of the Caribbean, testifying to the power of nature and the geological history of this tropical island.

An inevitable component of Creole culture, Martinican cuisine is one of its tastiest representatives. Spices, tropical fruits, local fish and meats, as many flavors as surprises. Discover our top 5 typical Martinican cooking recipes.

Visiting Martinique is not only a question of beaches and coconut trees. The island benefits from a remarkable cultural and historical heritage which is revealed, among others, in its numerous museums. Some of them are to be missed under no circumstances as they testify of the history and specificities of the archipelago.

Curry preparations are a must during a gourmet stay in Martinique. Spicy, fragrant and with an exquisite flavor, curry dishes are the most hearty of the local cuisine.

Anyone who spends a few days in Martinique will notice the omnipresence of coconut trees on the island. It is then naturally that the fruit of this palm tree became an essential element of the Martinique culture that we find in numerous recipes of which that of the Coconut Punch that we make you discover here.

Bois lélé (bwa lélé in Creole) is a small piece of wood with a particular shape that is used to stir drinks in Martinique. It exists throughout the Caribbean but its use as a stirrer is typical of the island. Its common name comes from the Creole “lélé”, meaning to mix, to stir. Its scientific name for its part, is Quararibea turbinata.

Among the elements of the culture and heritage of Martinique, there is one that we do not necessarily think of when we talk about the island. These are medicinal plants. The region abounds in its developed flora. Take the time to discover them during your visit to the island of flowers... In the meantime, find a brief overview concocted by us.

Martinique has a long history. Come and discover the 5 key dates in the history of Martinique, formerly called Madinina.

The main religion practiced in Martinique is Roman Catholicism. There are 49 parishes on the archipelago. As a result, there are many churches and cathedrals on the island, some of which are absolutely worth visiting during your stay, such as the cathedral of Fort de France.