Rebuilding Destroyed Cities

Rebuilding Destroyed Cities: Saint-Pierre, Martinique
Charles Allmon / National Geographic / Getty

Saint-Pierre Today
At the time of the 1902 disaster, Saint-Pierre was Martinique's largest city and economic hub, trafficking in sugar production and rum. Owing in large part to the city's geographical location and volcanic volatility, the rebuilding of Saint-Pierre has been limited, and many ruins remain. Today the city boasts a modest population of about 5,000 citizens and operates primarily as an off-the-beaten-path tourist destination.

Get the Latest Photos from Time.com
Get TIME photos and pictures of the week delivered directly to your inbox.