Belize City is the county's largest urban center with a population of 49,050. The city surrounds Haulover Creek, which is the name given to the last 4mi/6.5km of the Belize River. Belize City rests a few inches below sea level and most of the houses are built on piles above the swampy ground. Occasionally, cruise ships will dock at Belize City's
port. The colorful and somewhat ramshackle city is less tourist-oriented and offers a more authentic Belizean experience than other towns and villages.
The seaside city has a gritty appearance, reflecting its interesting native and colonial past. Gingerbread detailing on Victorian buildings contrasts with window bars on clapboard homes along the city's narrow streets. Belize City's residents are comprised of the nation's various ethnicities; Mayan, Spanish, Creole and Garifuna, creating a cultural center that is the heart of the country.
Actually built on the site of a Mayan fishing village, popular legend claims Belize City was built on a landfill of mahogany chips and rum bottles. These would be items left over from British pirates (Baymen) who sailed throughout the1700s and settled in Belize. Belize City was the first settlement on mainland Belize and eventually became the nation's capital. Originally, the city served as a logging camp and was the main center for the exporting of logwood and mahogany.
During Belize City's tenure as the nation's capital, multiple unfortunate incidents devastated the city, including three large fires, smallpox and other epidemics, as well as numerous damaging hurricanes. In 1961, Hurricane Hattie ravaged Belize City, killing hundreds of people and leaving many homeless. The damage resulting from Hurricane Hattie was estimated at U.S.$50 million. Following the hurricane the nation's capital was moved to Belmopan where it remains today. Nevertheless, Belize City is still the country's social, commercial and historical center.
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