FORT CHARLES

Fort Charles is Port Royal’s first fort and one of the only ones that survived the massive 1692 earthquake. Luckily, the sea washed up parts of the ancient fortress that is now landlocked due to silt build-up. Built between 1650 and 1660 Fort Charles was once one of the most feared cities and stomping ground for Admiral Rodney and the infamous Henry Morgan. At its peak, the city boasted as many as 104 cannons and 500 men. Many of the cannons are still in place and you’ll be greeted by some in their embrasures looking ready for battle. In the courtyard is the small but informative Maritime Museum that contains objects and artifacts that were retrieved from the sunken city.

As the oldest and greatest of the ancient city’s six fortresses Fort Charles was the ideal location to watch for enemy invasion. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea a visit to the wooden quarterdeck retraces the footsteps of those in charge of keeping watch. Just behind the fort is the partially sunken Giddy House from yet another massive earthquake in 1907. The small redbrick house originally stored weapons for the Royal Artillery. The nickname Giddy House comes from the feeling you get when trying to stand straight in the lopsided building. Even looking at the building might make you a little giddy.