Join us to discover Petit-Goâve, one of Haiti’s oldest towns! Explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning nature. Once the capital of Santo Domingo, it’s home to famous figures and the delicious dous makòs. Don’t miss out!
Petit-Goâve, one of Haiti's oldest towns, is located some 68 km southwest of Port-au-Prince, in the Ouest department. Nestled between Grand-Goâve and Miragoâne, this coastal commune boasts a rich history and vibrant culture.
Once called "Le Goâve" by the Amerindians, the town emerged as Aguava under Spanish rule in the late 16th century. With the arrival of French settlers, it was divided into Grand-Goâve and Petit-Goâve, the latter briefly serving as the capital of Saint-Domingue. Today, it is famous for "dous makòs", a popular local sweet.
Covering an area of 387.88 km², Petit-Goâve had a population of around 157,296 in 2009. Its varied landscape ranges from coastal plains to verdant hills. Notable figures include Faustin Soulouque (Emperor Faustin I) and renowned writer Dany Laferrière.
With its historic sites, enchanting landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Petit-Goâve offers a unique insight into Haiti's past and present.
