Haiti: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Haiti

Haiti covers the western third of the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea, which it shares with the Dominican Republic. It is the most mountainous country in the Caribbean. Haiti is known for its colourful painting, music and history as the first independent country in Latin America and the Caribbean.

About Port-au-Prince

Port-au-Prince lies on a wide bay of the Gulf of Gonâve on Haiti's west coast and is the country's largest city and busiest port. It is known for its colourful Iron Market and its lively art and music scene.

Fun facts about Haiti

1. Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, covering the western third of the island.
2. Haiti is the most mountainous country in the Caribbean, and its Taíno name is said to mean "land of high mountains."
3. In 1804, Haiti became the first country in the world founded and led by people who had freed themselves from slavery.
4. The Citadelle Laferrière, a giant mountaintop fortress finished in 1813, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Haitians eat soup joumou, a hearty squash soup, every New Year's Day to celebrate independence; UNESCO recognized it in 2021.
6. Pic la Selle, at 2,674 metres, is the highest mountain in Haiti.