Castries Quarter facts for kids

Location of the Castries Quarter in Saint Lucia

Castries is a special area called a Quarter in the country of Saint Lucia. It is also the capital city of Saint Lucia. This means it's the most important city for the government and business of the country.

What is Castries?

Castries is located on the northwest coast of Saint Lucia. It has a beautiful natural harbor. This harbor is a very important place for ships and boats. Many cruise ships visit Castries, bringing tourists to explore the island.

History of Castries

Castries has a long history. It was first founded by the French in 1650. They called it "Carenage," which means "safe anchorage." This name showed how important its harbor was. Later, the British took control of Saint Lucia. They renamed the city Castries in 1785. This was in honor of Charles Eugène Gabriel de La Croix, marquis de Castries. The city has been rebuilt many times because of fires. Despite these challenges, it has always remained the capital.

Life in Castries

Castries is a busy and lively city. It is the center for many activities in Saint Lucia.

Economy and Trade

The city's economy relies a lot on tourism. Visitors come to see its sights and enjoy the island's beauty. The harbor helps with trade, as goods come in and out of the country through Castries. There are also local markets where people sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and crafts.

Culture and Fun

Castries has a rich culture. You can find a mix of French, British, and African influences. The city hosts many events and festivals. These often include music, dancing, and colorful parades. The Castries Jazz Festival is a famous event that brings many people together.

Important Buildings

Some important buildings in Castries include the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. This is a large and beautiful church. There is also Derek Walcott Square, named after a famous Nobel Prize-winning poet from Saint Lucia. These places show the history and culture of the city.

Images for kids

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  Castries Jazz Festival in Castries, Saint Lucia

See also

• Distrito de Castries para niños (This link is to a Spanish article about Castries for kids.)