A unique but turbulent past
Although Saint Helena is primarily an island where you come for its pristine nature and pure air, there is a surprising amount of historical heritage. The history of Saint Helena is described from the year 1502, when the Portuguese discovered the remote island. The presence of water made the island a crucial port, in this desolate part of the world. The Dutch followed but Saint Helena soon after became a British colony, with Jamestown as its port and capital. Historic buildings, forts and remnants of old buildings can be found all over the island. They are the silent witnesses to a turbulent past revolving around trade, plantation owners and their slaves, and horrific conflicts between them. After the abolition of slavery in 1834, large numbers of ex-slaves were brought to the island without providing them with livelihoods, and in addition, Saint Helena had the dubious honor of serving as a dumping ground for prisoners. Where the world can't find you...
Napoleon's Longwood House
Perhaps the most famous exile is Napoleon, who arrived on the island in 1815 after a ten-week sea voyage. He spent his last six years of life on the island he cursed, watching his imperial past fade away in a bleak environment full of macabre events. During a tour of the island, you can visit the Longwood House: Napoleon's residence is now set up as a museum. The tomb you will see then is empty, as Napoleon's body has been reburied in Les Invalides in Paris. Along the way you will see mostly rugged hills and barren plains, valleys with sheep, patches of rainforest and cliffs, and on all sides the overwhelming views of the Atlantic Ocean. The atmosphere of the island is calm and friendly, the turbulent times are far behind us.