Port Royal

Port Royal is a settlement in southern Jamaica located at the end of the Palisadoes, near the mouth of Kingston Harbour. It was founded by the Spanish in 1494 and was once the greatest city in the Caribbean, serving as the center of trade and commerce in the Caribbean Sea by the late 17th century. On June 7, 1692, an earthquake with a resulting wave destroyed it. It has been periodically devastated by hurricanes. Another powerful earthquake struck in 1907.

Privateers were previously encouraged to attack Spanish warships at a period when lesser European states were hesitant to confront Spain directly. As a port city, it was known for its extravagant displays of riches and lax morality. During the 17th century, it was a favorite homeport for English and Dutch-sponsored privateers to spend their loot. When those nations stopped providing letters of marque to privateers against Spanish treasure ships and properties in the late 16th century, many of the sailors became pirates. Throughout the 17th century, the city remained their major base. Pirates from all over the world gathered in Port Royal, some from as far away as Madagascar.

Following the 1692 accident, the neighbouring town (and later, city) of Kingston gradually took up Port Royal's economic role. In 1999, plans were created to rebuild the little fishing village as a heritage tourism destination for cruise ships. It was thought that it may benefit on its unique legacy, with archaeological discoveries from pre-colonial and privateering years serving as the basis for potential attractions.

Location: Jamaica