Abandoned Radar Base in Trinidad
The massive satellite dish from the Cold War era now represents Trinidad’s desire for independence.
In the Cold War in the 1960s, the USA placed intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in the Western Hemisphere as a precaution against potential Russian attacks.
During a tense period, the US developed an Early Warning System to detect missile attacks before they could harm the country. One of the first stations in the monitoring network was built in Trinidad, near Chaguaramas. The radar station was completed in 1958, and the site was chosen because the British had leased the area to the USA in the early 1940s to construct a naval base. Although the Chaguaramas radar station operated until 1971, it was built without warning local authorities. As a result, the abandoned remains became a symbol of Trinidad’s fight for sovereignty.
The abandoned buildings on the site have a sombre, cinematic feel on misty days, but they offer an excellent spot for stargazing on clear nights. Despite its importance to the community regarding science, history, and culture, there are concerns that the site will be destroyed to make room for hotels. Sadly, there is no way to prevent this from happening due to the inevitable push for commercial development.
Know Before You Go
Up the hills of Tucker Valley, close to Maqueripe Bay: on your way to Maqueripe Bay, take the road on the right heading to the Bamboo Cathedral, then walk up the hill.
