Historic Attractions in Charlotte Amalie
Follow the Self Guided Downtown Historic Tour using the Charlotte Amalie Map.
Visitors’ Bureau – Tolbod gade across from Emancipation Park. Pick up brochures, maps, and tourist publications. 777-8827.
Emancipation Gardens - Commemorates the emancipation of slaves by Danish Governor Peter von Scholten on July 3, 1848
Grand Galleria - In 1841, this unique structure opened as the Grand Hotel. It remained a popular place for vacationers to stay until 1975.
Frederick Lutheran Church - Established in 1666, the same year Erik Smidt took formal possession of St. Thomas in the name of the Danish West India Company. The present building rebuilt in1826.
St. Thomas Synagogue / Weibel Museum - It remains the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. Clean sand is kept on the floor to commemorate the biblical exodus of the Jews from Egypt.
Legislature Building - Originally a barracks for Danish troops, the building dates back to 1874.
Seven Arches Museum - Once a Danish craftsman’s residence, it was built in the 19 th century featuring a total of seven arches to support the staircase.
Government House - This is the official residence of the Governor of the Virgin Islands. The building was constructed by the Danish Colonial Council between the years 1865 and 1867.
99 Steps – One of several ‘step-streets’ built by the Danes to solve the problem of getting around the town’s hilly terrain. The bricks were brought from Denmark as ballasts in the holds of trade ships. Walk to the top (actually 103 steps) and you will find yourself near the foot of more stairs leading to Blackbeard’s Castle.
Haagensen House - A restored home built in the early 1800s by island entrepreneur Hans Haagensen. The salons and chambers are furnished with grand, period antiques.
Crown House - Built in the middle of the 18th century, this stately home was the residence of two past VI governors. It is now a private residence.
Blackbeard’s Castle - Originally known as “Skytsborg,” it is considered by some to be the oldest historical structure in the Virgin Islands.
Hotel 1829 - This structure offers an ideal example of classic island architecture. It was built as a townhouse for a French sea captain and now serves as an exclusive in-town hotel.
Post Office Square - A full service United States post office is located within the strategically located building that marks the beginning of “Main Street.”
Fort Christian / VI Museum - One of the oldest standing structures in the Virgin Islands, this Danish fortress dates back to 1671. The striking landmark once served as the local jail. Today the fort is home to a museum filled with artifacts that offer keen insight into what life was like for the original settlers of the island. 776-4566.
St. Thomas Reformed Church - Not only is this the oldest congregation in the Virgin Islands; it is also the longest standing denomination with a continuous ministry in the United States.
Camille Pissarro Gallery - Camille Pissarro, the father of French Impressionism, was born and raised in the heart of downtown Charlotte Amalie The home of his birth is a treasured landmark — a lovingly nurtured art gallery on Main Street. Under the direction of Debra Wombold, this history-filled building features artworks created by over two dozen renowned artists including Camille Pissarro himself (1830-1903). 774-4612.
Market Square - People come here from all over the island to sell fresh fruit, fish, sauces, and vegetables. Traditionally, the busiest market day is Saturday; vendors arrive hours before dawn.
