What is the Capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis? Basseterre

Capital City of Saint Kitts and Nevis: Basseterre

City Overview

Basseterre is the capital and largest city of Saint Kitts and Nevis, a small island nation in the Caribbean. Located on the west coast of Saint Kitts, the city is the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country. With its historic architecture, scenic harbor, and proximity to the island’s natural beauty, Basseterre serves as the center of the country’s tourism industry, as well as its government and commerce.

The city was founded in 1627 by the British, making it one of the oldest towns in the Caribbean. Basseterre has played a central role in the history of Saint Kitts and Nevis, from its colonial beginnings to its current status as an independent nation. As the capital, it is home to the offices of the Prime Minister, the National Assembly, and other government institutions.

Basseterre has a charming combination of colonial-era buildings and modern facilities. The city’s layout includes narrow streets lined with colorful shops, cafes, and colonial-style homes. Over the years, the city has seen significant development, especially in infrastructure and tourism, making it a popular stop for cruise ships in the Caribbean.

City Facts

• Area: 37 km² (14 square miles)
• Population: Approximately 14,000 (2023 estimate), with the larger Basseterre urban area encompassing more than 20,000 people.
• Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC -4.
• Highest Mountain: Mount Liamuiga (1,156 meters / 3,793 feet), located in the northern part of Saint Kitts. It is an extinct volcano and the highest point on the island.
• Longest River: The Great River, located on the island of Saint Kitts, is the longest river on the island and flows through the fertile valleys of the island’s interior.

Major Landmarks in Basseterre

1. Independence Square: This central location is one of Basseterre’s most important landmarks. Originally the site of the island’s slave market, Independence Square was renamed in 1983 to mark Saint Kitts and Nevis’s independence. Today, it is a bustling area with beautiful architecture, public art, and gardens.
2. The Circus: A roundabout at the intersection of several roads in Basseterre, The Circus is inspired by the famous Piccadilly Circus in London. It features a Victorian-style clock tower and is a well-known meeting point in the city. The surrounding area has been developed with shops, restaurants, and offices.
3. The National Museum: Located in a colonial building, the National Museum offers insight into the history of Saint Kitts and Nevis, including exhibits on the indigenous peoples, colonial times, slavery, and the island’s independence. The museum provides visitors with an understanding of the cultural heritage and the social transformation of the islands.
4. St. George’s Anglican Church: One of the oldest buildings in Basseterre, St. George’s Church was built in the early 19th century and remains a key architectural feature of the city. The church is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and its role in the religious life of the city.
5. The Berkeley Memorial: Located near the Circus, the Berkeley Memorial is a beautiful monument dedicated to the first Governor of Saint Kitts, Sir William Berkeley. The structure features an elegant clock tower and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Basseterre.
6. The Caribelle Batik Factory: A popular destination for tourists, the Caribelle Batik Factory is famous for its hand-dyed batik fabrics. Visitors can learn about the traditional methods of batik-making and purchase locally made products.
7. Port Zante: As Basseterre’s primary cruise port, Port Zante is a lively area filled with shops, restaurants, and duty-free stores. It serves as a major gateway for tourists arriving on cruise ships and is a focal point for tourism-related activities.
8. The Old Treasury Building: Situated in the heart of Basseterre, the Old Treasury Building is a historic landmark that has been transformed into a commercial space. It was once used as the government’s treasury and is an excellent example of the colonial architecture that defines the city.
9. Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park: Located just outside Basseterre, Brimstone Hill Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The fort was built by the British in the 17th and 18th centuries to protect the island from invaders and is one of the best-preserved military forts in the Caribbean.
10. Basseterre’s Waterfront: The waterfront area is a picturesque part of the city, with a busy port, scenic views of the harbor, and the nearby Nevis Island across the channel. It is a popular area for walking and relaxing, with a variety of cafes, bars, and local shops.

Climate Overview

Basseterre, like much of the Caribbean, has a tropical climate, characterized by hot, humid conditions throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from December to April, while the wet season lasts from May to November. The average temperature remains relatively consistent year-round, hovering between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F).

Rainfall in Basseterre is influenced by the tropical trade winds and the region’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The city is vulnerable to hurricanes during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November, though the island is relatively shielded from the worst storms.

Climate Data for Basseterre

Month	Avg Temperature (°C)	Precipitation (mm)	Sunny Days
January	27	75	25
February	27	60	25
March	28	50	26
April	29	40	27
May	29	85	22
June	29	120	20
July	29	150	18
August	29	170	18
September	28	200	15
October	28	190	17
November	28	110	22
December	27	70	25

Other Cities as Capital in the History of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Before Basseterre became the official capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis in 1967, the island of Nevis served as an important administrative center.

1. Charlestown (Pre-1967): The capital of Nevis, Charlestown, was an important city in the colonial era. While it was never the national capital of the entire country, it played a central role in the governance of the island and served as the seat of power for Nevis. The city is still a significant cultural center today, though it no longer serves as the national capital.
2. Basseterre (1967 – Present): Basseterre became the capital of the newly formed Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis after gaining self-government from the British. It remains the country’s political and economic heart.

Country Facts

• Country Name: Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Capital: Basseterre
• Population: Approximately 53,000 (2023 estimate)
• Area: 261 km² (101 square miles)
• Largest City: Basseterre
• Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• Official Languages: English
• ISO Country Codes: KN (Alpha-2), KNA (Alpha-3), 659 (Numeric)
• Government: Federal parliamentary republic
• Religion: Predominantly Christian (Roman Catholic and Protestant)

Basseterre, the capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis, is a charming and historically rich city. From its colonial heritage to its modern-day role as the political and economic center of the nation, Basseterre stands as a symbol of the country’s vibrant past and promising future. The city’s combination of historical landmarks, cultural depth, and picturesque setting makes it a unique capital in the Caribbean.