By Adel Hannachi, Tunisia
On July 27, 2024, we had a trip to Castle Island in Boston. The visit unfolded as a delightful blend of history, nature, and team-building spirit. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow over the island, known for its rich historical significance with a beautiful scenery getting together the greenery and the views of the Boston Harbor.
We arrived by bus to the beach, greeted by the fresh breeze of the ocean and the far-ahead sight of Fort Independence, a prominent structure standing there since the mid-19th century. We were eager to explore its storied walls, that have witnessed a rich epoch of military history, from colonial times through the Civil War.
SUSI participants trudged along the picturesque paths that wind around the island, surrounded by the squirrel-inhabited trees, carpeted with green grass and caressed by the gentle summer breeze. The park was lively with picnics, laughter, and children playing on the grassy areas. We had some rest by the shade of a big tree and snapped some group photos, then headed to the fort.
Upon arrival to the fort, a free guided tour was offered by a local guide. We were presented a brief overview about the fort’s role as a bastion of the city. The guide engaged the visitors with stories of the past, bringing to life the cannons and the round shots, as well as the stones, the tunnels, and the corners of the castle.
After the visit to the fort, we had a long walk across the bridge connecting mainland to the Castle Island under the sound of planes landing to the Boston airport. From a distance, we could see the island’s natural beauty, an island suspended between the sky and the ocean where history and modernity come together in the most beautiful of ways.
Even though I am used to forts and islands in my country, Tunisia, what I saw at Castle Island was completely different. Castle Island represents a model for a combination between historical sites and modern life, between old stones and young children. The visit was a beautiful combination between a lovely story narrated by a passionate tour guide and a recreational venue at the heart of a megalopolis, a very inspiring visit, indeed. The trip sparked many ideas that I will share with my local community upon returning home.
The visit to Castle Island was not just a trip to a historical site; it was a life experience that connected the past with the present contributing to strengthening the ties between SUSIs within the rich tapestry of Boston.
All opinions expressed by the program participants are their own and do not represent nor reflect official views from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, or of the Institute for Training and Development, Inc.
