QUICK FACTS

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  1. Columbus first discovered Martinique in 1493, but did not land there until 1502.
  2. Columbus named the island Martinique, but it was also known as “Jouanacaera,” the island of iguanas.
  3. First inhabitants of the island were the Arawaks, followed by the Caribs and then the Tainos.
  4. The island is located in the Lesser Antilles between Dominica and St. Lucia.
  5. Martinique was claimed by France in 1635, but France and Britain fought over it until 1815.
  6. Martinique is considered an overseas Department but also a Region of France.
  7. Slavery was abolished in 1848.
  8. The island is 425 square miles (50 miles long and 22 miles wide) which is just a little smaller than New York City.
  9. The capital city is Fort-de-France.
  10. Currency is the Euro.
  11. The two main languages spoken on the island are: French and Creole.
  12. Martinique has more than 400,000 residents.
  13. The average temperature is about 79 degrees year round.
  14. It is the birth place of famous poet Aimé Cesaire and Empress Josephine.
  15. Industries on the island include sugar cane, avocados, vegetables, bananas, pineapples, rum oil refining, and tourism.
  16. Martinique exports oil, bananas, rum, and pineapples.
  17. Martinique is the rum capital of the world and is home to 12 different brands of rum.
  18. The island has a 97% literacy rate.
  19. The dance style Zouk originated in Martinique.
  20. The highest point on the island is the volcano Mt. Pelee which last erupted in 1902.
  21. Residents of Martinique are referred to as Martiniquais.
  22. Martinique tourism has grown rapidly, drawing visitors with its unique culture and breathtaking landscapes.

French Martinique FAQ

General Information

Where is Martinique located?

It is located in the Lesser Antilles between Dominica and St. Lucia. It covers 425 square miles, making it just slightly smaller than New York City.

Is Martinique an independent country?

No. Martinique is considered both an Overseas Department and a Region of France. The currency used is the Euro.

What is the capital of Martinique?

The capital city is Fort-de-France.

Culture & History

What languages are spoken in Martinique?

The two main languages spoken on the island are French and Creole.

What is Martinique known for?

It is known as the “Rum Capital of the World,” home to 12 different brands. It is also the birthplace of the Zouk dance style, famous poet Aimé Cesaire, and Empress Josephine.

Who were the original inhabitants of the island?

The first inhabitants were the Arawaks, followed by the Caribs, and then the Tainos. Columbus discovered the island in 1493 (landing in 1502) and named it Martinique, though it was previously known as “Jouanacaera” (the island of iguanas).

Nature & Climate

What is the weather like in Martinique?

The average temperature is approximately 79 degrees year-round.

Does Martinique have volcanoes?

Yes, the highest point on the island is Mount Pelée, a volcano that last erupted in 1902.