Bibliothèque Schœlcher
An iron-framed library in a Byzantine-Egyptian style. It was displayed at the 1889 Paris Exposition, then dismantled, shipped to Fort-de-France, and reassembled. Its colorful dome is dazzling.
The Schœlcher Library is named after Victor Schœlcher, the leader of the abolitionist movement, who donated about 10,000 of his personal books to Martinique. The building was designed by architect Pierre-Henri Picq, with a metal frame, colored glass, and mosaics that combine Roman, Byzantine, and Egyptian elements. It was first displayed in the Tuileries Garden at the 1889 Paris Exposition, then dismantled, shipped by sea to Fort-de-France, and reassembled. It opened in 1893. It remains a public library, and visitors can enter for free to admire the cast-iron dome and stained-glass windows. It is at the northwest corner of Parc de la Savane and is closed on Sundays.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat (check official website for hours)
Nearby sights
- La Savane
- Saint-Louis Cathedral
- Grand Marché de Fort-de-France
- Fort Saint-Louis
- Sacré-Cœur de Balata
- Pointe du Bout & Anse Mitan
- Musée de la Pagerie
- Anse Noire