Grenada

 

Quick Facts

• Continental region – North America
• Currency symbol of Grenada –Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$)
• Capital City –Saint George’s
• Official languages –English
• Population –111,454 (2018) World Bank
• Country dialling code  –  (+473)
• Official website – Grenada
• Top 3 biggest industries  –Agriculture, Tourism, Quarrying
• Google Maps link – Grenada
• Where is it? –Grenada is a Caribbean country comprising a main island, also called Grenada, and smaller surrounding islands. Dubbed the “Spice Isle,” the hilly main island is home to numerous nutmeg plantations. It’s also the site of the capital, St. George’s, whose colourful homes, Georgian buildings and early-18th-century Fort George overlook narrow Carenage Harbour.

---

Grenada In Pictures

---

Grenada History

• How did the country get its current name? –The name Grenada came from Spanish sailors who, passing by, found its hills reminiscent of their homeland of Granada.
• When and by whom the country was first discovered? – Discoveries indicate humans have visited the island since 3000 BC, many believed to be from the Arawak or Carib groups. In 1498 Christopher Columbus discovered Grenada; he called it La Concepción. 
• Who were the first Inhabitants? –Grenada’s first known inhabitants were the Ciboneys. The first settlers, the Arawaks, moved to the island from the Amazon Basin of South America. Around 1000 A.D., the Caribs arrived from South America. 
• When it was first recognized as a country? – Formally independent from the United Kingdom 7 February 1974. 
• Who was the first leader of the country? –Sir Eric Matthew Gairy PC (18 February 1922 – 23 August 1997) was the first Prime Minister of Grenada, serving from his country’s independence in 1974 until his overthrow in a coup by Maurice Bishop in 1979.

---

Five Significant Events

1. 1498 – Christopher Columbus sights the islands. (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-19596901)
2. 1885-1958 – Grenada acts as administrative headquarters of the British Windward Islands. (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-19596901b)
3. Independence 1974 – Grenada becomes independent with Eric Gairy as prime minister. (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-19596901)
4. 1983 – Bishop ousted and executed by former left-wing allies led by General Hudson Austin, who objected to his attempts to improve ties with the US; coup provides pretext for an invasion by the US; Austin arrested; Interim Advisory Council reinstates 1974 constitution.(https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-19596901)
5. Mitchell election victory 2000 September – Three Chinese diplomats on a private visit are deported for statements construed as interference in the internal affairs of Grenada. They were invited by the newly-formed Grenada-China friendship association of opposition leader Michael Baptiste. (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-19596901)

Five Places to Visit in Grenada

1. Grand Anse Beach: Fringed by sea grapes, almond trees, and coconut palms, Grand Anse is Grenada’s most famous beach. Cruise ship visitors flock to this three-kilometre arc of golden sand and gentle surf. Water hues range from clear turquoise in the shallows to deep cobalt blue, and the calm waters are perfect for swimming. Many hawkers patrol the sands, but a polite “No, thank you” will keep them at bay. If you feel like indulging in a little shopping, midway along the beach is the Grande Anse Craft and Spice Market, another popular stop for cruise ship visitors. (https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/grenada-gre.htm)
2. St. George’s: One of the prettiest port towns in the Caribbean, St. George’s curves along a horseshoe-shaped harbour backed by volcanic hills. This colourful capital of Grenada is popular with boaters, who dock in the busy harbour of Carenage. Brick and stone buildings with red-tiled roofs line the streets, where locals sell spices and crafts. Two of the main historical attractions in the city are Fort George, built by the French in the early 18th century, and Fort Frederick. Both offer beautiful views over the town and sea. Housed in a 1704 French barracks and former prison, the Grenada National Museum displays a hodgepodge of historical items, including Carib and Arawak artefacts and exhibits on the sugar and whaling industries. Right nearby, the House of Chocolate is a must-visit for cocoa fans, with exhibits on the local cocoa industry and decadent sweet treats. To soak up some local colour and buy fresh tropical fruits and spices, stop by the popular Saturday morning market at St. George’s Market Square. (https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/grenada-gre.htm)
3. Underwater Sculpture Park: On the west coast of Grenada, a short drive north of St. George’s at Moliniere Bay, the Underwater Sculpture Park is a unique submerged gallery that also serves as an artificial reef in a marine protected area. Created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, the sculptures range from Amerindian petroglyphs to life-size figures cast from local children. Divers, snorkelers, and glass bottom boat passengers can admire this underwater exhibition, although coming face-to-face with these sculptures below sea level is the best way to appreciate their artistry. (https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/grenada-gre.htm)
4. Fort Frederick: At the end of winding hairpin turns atop Richmond Hill, Fort Frederick offers stunning views of St. George’s and the sea. The fort has an interesting history. The French began construction of Fort Frederick in 1779, and the British then completed it in 1791. It is nicknamed the “backwards facing fort” because its cannons face inland instead of out to sea, thanks to the French who feared a surprise land attack after they used this successful strategy with the British. In 1850, the fort was abandoned completely until it was later occupied by the Grenadian military. (https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/grenada-gre.htm)
5. Fort George: Built in 1705 by the French, Fort George lies on the promontory to the west of the harbour and is Grenada’s oldest fort. It was built to protect the harbour, but stands mostly derelict today. The main draw here is the spectacular 360-degree view across the town’s red-tiled roofs and church spires to the harbour and sea beyond. Be prepared for a hot and steamy hike up a flight of stairs to reach the fort. (https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/grenada-gre.htm)

References: 

• https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-19596901
• https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/grenada-gre.htm