What is the capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Charlotte Amalie is the capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands. It stands on the southern shore of Saint Thomas, beside a deep harbor that has shaped the town’s history and economy.

The settlement was founded in 1666 under the Danish name Taphus, meaning “beer house” or “tap house.” In 1691, it was renamed Charlotte Amalie in honor of Charlotte Amalie of Hesse-Kassel, the wife of Danish King Christian V. The Danish West Indies were sold to the United States in 1917 for $25 million.

Charlotte Amalie is known for Danish colonial architecture, historic churches, shopping, and cruise tourism. Fort Christian, the 99 Steps, and the harbor are among its best-known landmarks. The town also serves as the territory’s principal political and commercial center.

A neighboring fact often surprises visitors: the U.S. Virgin Islands drive on the left, even though most vehicles are left-hand-drive cars imported from the United States. Charlotte Amalie is also the largest town in the territory.