My Travels - St. Helena Island

Guess what? The discussion with Mrs. Krajewska about philosophies of Napoleon and Hitler, made me think about choosing my next travel post. This time it will be about St. Helena Island, where Napoleon spent the last six years of his life in confinement by the British.

The Island is situated in the South Atlantic Ocean. It was discovered in 1502 by the Portuguese admiral, João da Nova. He built a timber chapel in the valley which later became the site of Jamestown.

I had been trying to summarize the history of the Island for you, but after a while of doing so, I realised that it will take me more time than writing the précis, so.... if someone wants to get deeper knowledge, here is the link with some facts about St. Helena : http://www.sthelena.se/history/history.htm

What I remember the most, were the contradictory landscapes I saw there. At the bottom of the Island  it seemed like a hell, like nobody could live and survive there, as it was only made of dark volcanic rocks.

Then we had to climb "million" stairs in order to get to the higher level, where from the taxi took us for the trip around the Island. As we drove deeper inland, the landscape was changing gradually, showing  us the charm of this place. It was becoming greener and more beautiful . On the way to Napoleon's house we stopped by his grave, which was placed on a small valley surrounded by very green hills with lots of beautiful flowers. The house that he lived in is transformed to museum these days, so we were able to see it inside. I was surprised to see in what small bed Napoleon slept in. It made me wonder, whether he fitted in it. I heard he was a short man, but I didn't know his exact height, so I checked it up. He was 168cm.

I liked the Island, but I don't think I could live there for a long time. It had to be hard for Napoleon too ;)

Bottom of the Island

The stairs.

Inland

Napoleon's Grave

 

Napoleon's House

Napoleon's Bed