Fort-de-France

Fort-de-France is the capital of France's Caribbean departement of Martinique. With a population of approximately 101,000 it's also one of the major cities in the Caribbean. The city has a fine, natural harbor defended by three forts. Originally named Fort-Royale, the city became economically important after the volcanic eruption of Montagne Pelée destroyed the town of Saint-Pierre in 1902. A statue memorating Martinique-born Empress Josefine, the wife of Napoleon, is in the city.