Saint Lucia (Island)

Geography

Saint Lucia is volcanic, with rugged interior mountains. The Gros Piton and Petit Piton, two coastal volcanic plugs on the southwest coast, are among the most photographed landmarks in the Caribbean and together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Sovereignty of the island passed between French and British control fourteen times before the British took final control in 1814. The island gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1979 while remaining in the Commonwealth.

Culture

English is the official language and Saint Lucian Creole French is spoken by most residents at home. Two Nobel laureates were born on the island: economist Arthur Lewis and poet Derek Walcott.