The Camille Darsières Cultural Center is located in the former courthouse, a neoclassical building designed in 1906 by the contractor Gustave de Laguarigue. It stands at the intersection of Perrinon, Schoelcher, and Moreau-de-Jones streets.

Originally, this site was home to the convent of the Daughters of Providence, founded in the 18th century by Father Charles François de Coutances. In 1764, he donated it to the colony on the condition that both religious and secular instruction be provided there, along with classes in dance and etiquette. It later became the courthouse of Martinique.

Following the construction of a new, more modern and functional courthouse, the old building was transformed into a space dedicated to culture. Today, it houses the SERMAC (Municipal Service for Cultural Action of Fort-de-France), while its facilities at the Floral Park of Fort-de-France undergo renovation. The SERMAC plays a key role in the Fort-de-France Cultural Festival.

In the middle of the garden stands a statue of Victor Schoelcher, at the base of which is inscribed: “No French land can ever again bear slaves.” The center is named after Camille Darsières, a former lawyer and deputy of Martinique, who passed away in 2006.

“La Paille Caraïbe” is a basketry workshop located in the Morne‑des‑Esses district of Sainte‑Marie. It has preserved the craft practices of pre‑Columbian tradition, passed down orally — a true heritage from the Kalinago (Carib) people. This Creole workshop continues to uphold Amerindian know‑how, its gestures, and its techniques.

Created in 1967, it originally brought together around fifty artisans. Today, only two or three remain, all over 70 years old. The knowledge has been passed down from father to son. The various objects are crafted using two main tropical plants: cachibou and aroman, from which the precious weaving stems are extracted. Visitors can watch demonstrations of dyeing and weaving techniques.

The site also includes an exhibition and sales area where you can see and purchase the items woven on‑site: bags, bracelets, necklaces, rings, “attrapes‑doudou,” mats, pottery, lamps and floor lamps, suitcases, sewing boxes, Caribbean baskets, bottles, vases, hats of all kinds, and more.

A perfect opportunity to take home a souvenir, with prices starting at €3.

To get there, head toward the Morne‑des‑Esses district via the D25. The workshop is located about 6 km from the town center of Sainte‑Marie.