Tragically, the once-beautiful Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince was almost entirely destroyed by the earthquake that struck the island in January 2010. Most of the major tourist attractions, government buildings, major hotels and hospitals were obliterated by the natural disaster, but the city is slowly rebuilding, thanks largely to international relief efforts. Although many of the following sights now lay in ruins, they give a hint at what Port-au-Prince may return to in the coming years and decades.
The National Palace, once the city's grandest building, collapsed during the earthquake and today remains one of the most startling reminders of the destruction. One of the capital's many tent cities has sprung up near the ruins in the Champs de Mar, formerly the most beautiful park in the country.
The broken husk of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption still attracts faithful locals, but the large church was reduced to a shell of its former glory. Behind the main building is a plaza, and funerals are often still held there.
The Saint Trinité Episcopalian Cathedral was also reduced to rubble, but the church was once one of the largest houses of worship in the country. The quiet exterior gave little hints of the incredible interior, covered with delightfully colorful and exuberant murals that told the story of Christ's life.
The modern Musée du Panthéon National drew many visitors with its unusual subterranean design and tombs of national heroes. Many leaders of the independence movement have been laid to rest there, including Christophe, Toussaint Louverture, Pétion and Dessalines. Built in the same style as the homes of the indigenous Taíno people, the building was a beautiful example of Haitian architecture.
The southern end of the Champs de Mars was once dominated by the Musée d'Art Haitien, home to the world's largest collection of Haitian art. Many native masters were well-represented, including Robert St. Brice, Préfète Duffaut, Hector Hyppolite and Philomé Obin.
The nearby Centre d'Art was opened in 1944 to encourage a new generation of Haitian painters. The exhibition space and school gave local masters the recognition they deserved, and visitors were treated to outstanding temporary exhibitions of up-and-coming artists.
One of the most lively sites in the city was once the Marché de Fer, or Iron Market. Vendors packed the market selling everything from fresh produce to sea turtles, voodoo paraphernalia and traditional crafts. Nearly every turn in the labyrinthine market producing a breathtaking inventory of local handicrafts, including paintings, coconut jewelry, masks, sculptures, staves and more.
If the past is any indication of the future, Port-au-Prince will someday rise again to become a vibrant, beautiful city with a deep appreciation of art and culture.