Oloffson Hotel: A Cultural Gem Reduced to Ashes Amid Haiti's Gang Violence

Once a vibrant symbol of Haitian culture and history, the Oloffson Hotel was a beloved venue for artists and writers, including Graham Greene. Its demise reflects the troubling security situation in Port-au-Prince, with communities besieged by gang control.

The Oloffson Hotel, an iconic cultural landmark of Haiti renowned for its intricate gingerbread architecture, has tragically fallen victim to the escalating violence that plagues the nation. The hotel, which served as a sanctuary for writers and celebrities alike—including Graham Greene, who immortalized it in his novel “The Comedians”—was "burned to the ground" during an apparent arson attack that occurred late Saturday night, as reported by Richard Morse, the hotel’s Haitian American owner.

The devastating loss, which Morse confirmed through drone footage and accounts from friends in Haiti, highlights the growing insecurity in Port-au-Prince, where gangs have increasingly gained control over the urban landscape. The Oloffson, standing for over a century just minutes away from the city center, was celebrated not only for its ornate wooden latticework and distinctive turrets but also for its role in attracting a colorful array of guests from around the world.

Haitian architect Frederick Mangonès expressed deep anguish over the incident, stating, “I can’t describe the sadness and rage about the destruction of our patrimony. There’s no respect for human life or history.” This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of how the country’s cultural heritage continues to suffer under the weight of violence and instability, further eroding the nation's historical fabric and sense of identity amidst turmoil.