Follow Saint Kitts Citizenship by Investment and Life in Saint Kitts: Located on the southwest coast of the island of Saint Kitts in the eastern Caribbean, Basseterre is the capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis, with a population of approximately 18,500. Founded in 1627 and rebuilt after a major fire in 1867, it historically served as a base for British colonialists to engage in conquest and colonial rule in the West Indies. Today, the city is the nation's political, economic, and cultural center, serving as an important port and a distribution hub for goods destined for neighboring islands. The sugar industry is the primary industrial sector, complemented by cotton ginning, brewing, and other industries. It is a trade center for cane sugar, molasses, cotton, sea salt, and tropical fruits. An international airport is located 3 kilometers to the north. The city features sacred churches and colorful botanical gardens; the most attractive tourist site is the St. George's Anglican Church, originally built by the French in 1670. It has been rebuilt following damage from hurricanes, fires, and earthquakes throughout its history.