Description

Declared a “protected area” in April 2010, the Sans-souci Ramier National Historical Park (PNH-CSSR) occupies an area of 2,500 hectares or 25 km² and is made up of three important historical and natural sites: La Ferrière Citadel, the ruins of the Sans Souci Palace and the Ramiers complex. Surrounded by mountain ranges covered with exuberant vegetation, the architectural ensemble of the Sans-Souci Palace and its dependencies, the Citadel of Henry and the Siege of Ramiers, constitute the universal symbol of freedom since its monuments are the first works built by black slaves who had won their freedom. The PNH-CSSR is dominated by Haiti’s most imposing historical and architectural monument, the Citadelle Henry (970 m above sea level), which was built by King Henry Christophe (Henry I) at the beginning of the 19th century. Located within the national park, created by presidential decree of 1978 to preserve the splendid natural setting of the mountain peaks covered with exuberant vegetation, the Citadelle Henry, the Ramiers complex and the Sans-souci palace represent the first historic buildings built after of the independence of the first black nation in the world. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982, the PNH-CSSR has been administered since 2013 by an Inter-Ministerial Management Council made up of representatives of six ministries, under the presidency of the Prime Minister of the Government of the Republic. The permanent secretariat of this council is in charge of the General Directorate of ISPAN (Institute for the Protection of National Heritage). 

Biodiversity

The PNH-CSSR still maintains its original ecological characteristics. Until now, the forest cover on the outskirts of the Citadel prevails, despite the vagaries of the weather and certain activities of anthropic origin. Its unique landscape, as a result of the presence of the Dondon Valley and the surrounding hills, offers a spectacle of natural beauty characterized by a massif that dominates the department of the North, clouds that juggle between the summits of the celestial vault and vegetation pleasant to the eye. The PNH-CSSR, with its rich and varied ecosystem, is a true habitat for various species of animals and plants. 

Ecotourism potential

Due to its history and architectural scope, and with the Citadel as an impeccable work, the PNH-CSSR is one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Haiti. The best place to visit in Haiti to discover the greatness of the history of a people freed from slavery due to their fighting strength and courage. An authentic kingdom where a piece of the country’s history is associated with one of the most exceptional natural settings.