The Town of Belladere in Centre Department

Former Haiti President Dumarsais Estime established Belladère in 1948, its name meaning to guard. Considered the crème de la crème of the Central Plateau, its bewitching beauty and proximity to the Dominican-Republic make it an advantageous place for its export market. Elias Piñas, also known as Comendador, is the border-crossing city of the Dominican-Republic, over which Haitian day-laborers travel to seek jobs. Transportation means used to cross over include jitney buses, donkey trains, and agriculture export trucks.

Belladère's physical infrastructure is weak. Roads are in terrible condition, and restrict the flow of commerce within and around the cityship. The section of road between Belladère and neighboring Lascahobas is barely drivable. The tread on driver vehicles wears out quickly, provoking constant complaining over the deplorable condition of the roads.

Farmers in Belladère raise coffee, beans, root nuts, and produce in rich and well-irrigated soil. The cityship has a healthy export market, which serves Elias Piña, who relies heavily on Belladère for its fresh products.

Belladère's population is predominately Catholic, with a sprinkling of Voodoo believers found everywhere in Haiti. Its Christian adherents honor the city's patron saint, St. Notre Dame de Lourdes, with a feast day held annually on February 11th.

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