Located in Port-au-Prince facing Place L'Ouverture near Champs de Mars, the National Palace site carries deep historical weight as the official home of Haiti's presidency. When you explore this iconic location, you are standing at a historic hub that has hosted governing residences since the mid-to-late 18th century. Architect Georges Baussan designed the famous 1920 white-painted reinforced concrete palace in a French Renaissance style, featuring an E-shaped layout, domed pavilions, and Ionic columns.
Though the grand structure was severely damaged in the magnitude 7.0 earthquake of 2010—with its collapsed cupola becoming a famous symbol—and fully demolished in 2012, the site remains central to Haitian political history. Rebuilding plans announced in 2017 aim to eventually restore the original exterior while modernizing the interior for earthquake resistance, but construction has not yet begun. Today, you can view the historic grounds and ancillary buildings that continue to serve as a center for governmental administration.
Visiting this location gives you a direct look at the enduring legacy of Haiti's leaders, past presidential residences, and the resilient spirit of a capital working to rebuild its most famous landmark amidst ongoing security challenges.
What to see at National Palace
- Historic site of executive residences dating back to the mid-to-late 18th century
- Former French Renaissance design created by Haitian architect Georges Baussan
- Iconic historic architecture featuring an E-shaped layout, Ionic columns, and domed pavilions
- Governmental administration hub located across from Place L'Ouverture near Champs de Mars
Visiting tips
Keep in mind that the historic palace building was demolished in 2012 following the 2010 earthquake, and recent security concerns from local gang activity affect the surrounding area.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
National Palace is easy to reach on Port-au-Prince’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Port-au-Prince travel guide.
See the full Port-au-Prince travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.