Roseau is the capital and largest city of Dominica with a population of 15,000. It is a small and compact urban settlement in the parish of St. George by the Roseau River. Built on the site of the ancient Caribbean island village of Sairi, it is the oldest and most important city on the island of Dominica.
Roseau is the most important port of Dominica for foreign trade. Bananas, bay oil, vegetables, grapefruits, oranges, and cocoa are exported through it.
The central area of Roseau is densely built up with small and large houses and even larger modern concrete structures. There is little greenery and open space in the city.
Roseau has some fine examples of West Indian architecture. The French colonial style and vernacular form stand out the most. Much of the French influence can be found on King George V Street.