Government House, Castries
Dating back to 1895, Government House holds a significant place in Saint Lucia's history. Situated atop Morne Fortune, on the outskirts of Castries, it offers a glimpse into the island's past and reflects the architectural style of the Victorian era. Government House serves as the official residence and office of the Governor-General of Saint Lucia. Over the years, it has hosted various dignitaries and played a vital role in the governance of the island.
Initially used as the home and office of the Commissioners of Saint Lucia, Government House later served as the residence for the Administrators of the island. Since 1967, it has been utilized by the Governors of Saint Lucia, and following the country's independence in 1979, it became the residence of the Governors-General.
The site of Government House has seen several iterations. The original structure built in 1817 was destroyed by a hurricane before its completion. A second house, constructed of timber, stood on the same spot until it fell into disrepair and was abandoned by 1865. The present brick-built Government House was completed in 1895, replacing its predecessors. Reflecting the Victorian architectural style, Government House boasts characteristic design elements of the era. Its brick construction and imposing presence atop Morne Fortune make it a distinctive landmark on the island.
While Government House is primarily a residence and official venue, its historical significance makes it an attraction for visitors interested in Saint Lucia's heritage. Although access to the interior may be restricted, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer picturesque views and opportunities for exploration.
Initially used as the home and office of the Commissioners of Saint Lucia, Government House later served as the residence for the Administrators of the island. Since 1967, it has been utilized by the Governors of Saint Lucia, and following the country's independence in 1979, it became the residence of the Governors-General.
The site of Government House has seen several iterations. The original structure built in 1817 was destroyed by a hurricane before its completion. A second house, constructed of timber, stood on the same spot until it fell into disrepair and was abandoned by 1865. The present brick-built Government House was completed in 1895, replacing its predecessors. Reflecting the Victorian architectural style, Government House boasts characteristic design elements of the era. Its brick construction and imposing presence atop Morne Fortune make it a distinctive landmark on the island.
While Government House is primarily a residence and official venue, its historical significance makes it an attraction for visitors interested in Saint Lucia's heritage. Although access to the interior may be restricted, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer picturesque views and opportunities for exploration.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Castries. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Government House on Map
Sight Name: Government House
Sight Location: Castries, St Lucia (See walking tours in Castries)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Castries, St Lucia (See walking tours in Castries)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Castries, St Lucia
Create Your Own Walk in Castries
Creating your own self-guided walk in Castries is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Castries Introduction Walking Tour
Nobel Prize-winning poet and playwright Derek Walcott could have easily moved on from his home country, both physically and spiritually. His famous line, "The sea is history" proves otherwise. He felt a deep bond with the sea that once "cradled" him.
Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia, stretches along a wide, sheltered bay on the island’s northwest coast. Its name pays... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia, stretches along a wide, sheltered bay on the island’s northwest coast. Its name pays... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles



