Champ de Mars, Port-au-Prince

The principal public square of the Haitian capital, a broad complex of plazas and gardens facing the former national palace. It is dotted with statues and monuments to the heroes of independence, including equestrian figures of the leaders who founded the nation in 1804. Fountains, a memorial to the unknown maroon and open lawns fill the ensemble. Long a stage for political rallies, concerts and daily life, the Champ de Mars is the ceremonial and social heart of Port-au-Prince.