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Grenada History

The history of Grenada has many common threads with other Caribbean Islands. Through Grenada’s early history, the Island was inhabited by Carib Indians. The first European interaction in the history of Grenada came in 1498, when Columbus first sighted the Island and named it Concepcion (later to be renamed after the Spanish city of Granada). Grenada history is a bloody one. Repeated attempts by the French to take the island by force, after purchasing it from the British in 1650, ended in a mass suicide on the part of the Caribs who leaped to their death (from the famous “Leaper’s Hill) rather than face subjugation by the French army. Despite its initial sale, during the 18th century, Grenada’s history saw many changes in autonomy between rival European states. While the French would eventually lose the island to the British in 1762, it would take until 1967 for the tiny island to become part of the British Commonwealth (a great mark in Grenada history would come in 1970 when the Island achieved independence). Much of the economic prosperity of the history of Grenada came from the introduction of spice cultivation. In the late 18th century, Grenada changed focus from the sugar industry and found its niche in nutmeg, becoming a major hub for European triangle trade.

The history of Grenada is one that has been at times violent. In 1979 an attempt was made to establish a communist state in Grenada, but in October 1983, at the request of the Governor General, the US, Jamaica and Eastern Caribbean States intervened militarily and in December 1984 a general election re-established democratic government.

Grenada Villa Rentals

Grenada know as the “Spice Island” is a jewel …sparkling bays that glisten in the sunlight over picturesque sandy coves…lush rainforests…exotic fauna…majestic mountains…staffed luxury villas…a wonderful undiscovered and largely unspoiled island. Three inhabited islands and a few uninhabited islets comprise the nation: Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique. The nation’s capital, as well as the majority of the population, is located on Grenada. Lush rain forests and thick vegetation-provide an exceptional green beauty that few places in the world can match.

Located in the Eastern Caribbean, the island is only 12 degrees north of the equator and the most southern of the Windward Islands. The island’s waterfalls, lush rain forests, volcanic crater lake, small villages, nutmeg and banana plantations, scenic hiking, pristine coral reefs and unspoiled beaches all contribute to make Grenada one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations for those seeking 'off the beaten track' natural beauty and charm. Indeed, 1/9 of Grenada’s land mass is preserved in the way of parks, natural sanctuaries and wildlife preserves. The island is, indeed, a haven for outdoor lovers of all types who will savor the peerless natural beauty.

Grenada villa rentals by Villas Caribe places luxury Grenada villas within a truly unique ecosystem. Grenada villas can be found hillside or on the beach, all with the flair that one would expect from the "Spice Island". For more information on Grenada villa rentals and Grenada villas, please visit the "Destination Information" section of the Grenada villa rental destination page or contact one of our experienced Grenada Island villa rental consultants.