Brades Map

Description:

Brades is the de facto capital city of Montserrat, a British Overseas Territory located in the Caribbean. The city became the unofficial capital after Plymouth, the former capital, was destroyed by volcanic activity from the Soufrière Hills volcano in 1997. While Plymouth remains the de jure capital, Brades has served as the center of government operations and administration since the natural disaster.

Located in the Carr's Bay/Little Bay area on the northwest coast of the island, Brades houses most of the government buildings and offices, including the Government House, various ministries, and the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. The city sits at a safe distance from the volcano's exclusion zone, making it a suitable location for the island's administrative functions. The current population of Brades is approximately 1,000 residents.

The infrastructure of Brades includes essential facilities such as the Montserrat Cultural Centre, which was built with funding from the British government and serves as a major venue for cultural events and performances. The city also features the Montserrat National Trust, which works to preserve the island's natural and cultural heritage. The Carr's Bay Port provides maritime access for both cargo and passengers, though plans exist for the development of a larger port facility in nearby Little Bay.

Since becoming the de facto capital, Brades has undergone significant development to accommodate its new role. The government has implemented various infrastructure projects, including road improvements and the construction of new administrative buildings. The city's location offers scenic views of the Caribbean Sea and serves as a gateway to the island's northern region, which remains safe for habitation and tourism. Despite its relatively small size, Brades continues to play a crucial role in Montserrat's recovery and development following the volcanic crisis of the late 1990s.