What is the capital of Jamaica?

The capital of Jamaica is Kingston. Located on the island’s southeastern coast, Kingston is also Jamaica’s largest city, chief port, and principal cultural and commercial center.

Kingston was founded in 1692 after a devastating earthquake destroyed much of nearby Port Royal. Survivors established a settlement beside a natural harbor protected by the Palisadoes, and the town expanded with a planned grid of streets. As Kingston grew in economic importance, it surpassed Spanish Town, Jamaica’s former colonial capital.

Kingston officially replaced Spanish Town as Jamaica’s capital and seat of government in 1872. Spanish Town remains an important historic city, while Montego Bay is a major tourism and business center. Kingston is also closely associated with Jamaican music, including reggae and the international legacy of Bob Marley.