Castries: the gateway to Saint Lucia's Pitons

Capital of Saint Lucia on a natural protected bay, Castries remains the departure point for the celebrated Pitons, two twin volcanic peaks that are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The center, gateway to the famous Pitons of Saint Lucia, is comfortably explored by taxi or local bus.

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, with colorful frescoes painted by a local artist in the Eighties, remains the most vibrant religious building in the historic center.

Just steps away, the Central Market of Castries, rebuilt multiple times after devastating fires, animates trade in spices and traditional Caribbean craftsmanship.

Continuing along the coast, one reaches the Pitons, two twin volcanic peaks a UNESCO heritage site that rise directly from the sea near Soufrière.

Toward evening, Castries's port animates with fresh fish restaurants with views of cruise ships moored in the bay.

The Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, are remnants of ancient volcanic cones and remain Saint Lucia's most recognizable natural symbol, depicted on the country's national flag.

Castries was rebuilt multiple times throughout its history following four major fires, the last of which in 1948 destroyed nearly the entire colonial historic center of the city.