Barbados isn’t just about pristine beaches and rum punches; beneath the surface lies a captivating hidden history etched into its very landscape. This article unearths some of the island’s lesser-known stories, focused on specific spots and their intriguing past, offering a journey beyond the typical tourist trail.
Harrison’s Cave Unveiled: More Than Just Stalactites
Harrison’s Cave, a well-known tourist attraction, holds secrets beyond its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. While the guided tram tour is a fantastic introduction, consider the Eco-Adventure Tour. This more immersive experience lets you explore parts of the cave system on foot, wading through underground streams and discovering smaller chambers inaccessible to the tram. The tour reveals insights into the cave’s geological formation and the impact of human interaction over time. Listen closely to your guide; they’ll share stories about early explorations and local legends associated with the cave. Check the official Harrison’s Cave website for tour availability and booking information. Expect to pay around $100- $150 USD for adventure tours.
Pro Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. Book in advance, especially during peak season, as these smaller tours have limited availability.
The Garrison Savannah: Racing Through Time
The Garrison Savannah is more than just a racetrack; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in military history. Established in 1704, it served as a crucial military complex for the British Empire. Beyond the horse races, take a self-guided walking tour around the grounds. Look for the Main Guard building, recognizable by its striking clock tower. It was once the headquarters for the British troops stationed in Barbados. The Barbados Museum and Historical Society, located within the Garrison area, offers invaluable insights into the region’s military and social history. Explore the exhibits to learn about the lives of soldiers, the significance of battles fought, and the impact of the military on Barbadian society. Admission to the museum is roughly $15 USD. Don’t forget to check out St. Ann’s Fort with its rare collection of 17th Century English Iron Guns, one of the most complete anywhere in the world.
Getting There: The Garrison Savannah is easily accessible by public transportation from Bridgetown. Buses run frequently along the main road adjacent to the Savannah.
Insider Secret: On non-race days, the Garrison Savannah is a popular spot for locals to fly kites, play cricket, or simply relax. Join them for a truly authentic Barbadian experience.
St. Nicholas Abbey: Sugar, Secrets, and Architectural Splendor
While St. Nicholas Abbey is now a renowned rum distillery and plantation house, its history is far more complex than its current image suggests. This Jacobean mansion, one of only three genuine Jacobean houses in the Western Hemisphere, dates back to 1658 and is said to have been built by Colonel Benjamin Berringer. Explore the house and grounds to learn about the lives of the families who lived and worked there, including the enslaved people who played a crucial role in the plantation’s success. Pay close attention to the architecture; the intricate details and Dutch gables are a testament to the wealth and influence of the early planters. The Abbey offers guided tours, rum tastings, and even a train ride through the surrounding sugarcane fields. Consider the heritage railway – this train (runs on the historic railway from the late 19th century) offers spectacular views over the island. Entry fees vary based on the tours selected, expect to pay around $60- $100USD for a full visit. Check the St. Nicholas Abbey website for accurate pricing and tour times.
Hidden Detail: Look for the initials of the original owners carved into the windowpanes. These markings offer a glimpse into the personal lives of those who once called St. Nicholas Abbey home.
Bathsheba and the Scotland District: A Rugged Beauty with Geological Wonders
Bathsheba, on the rugged east coast, is known for its dramatic rock formations and powerful surf. However, its geological significance often goes unnoticed. This area, part of the Scotland District, is a rare geological formation in the Caribbean composed of sedimentary rocks (sandstones, shales and conglomerates) that are usually associated with continents such as South America. These rocks were pushed to the surface by tectonic activity, making Bathsheba a unique geological site. Hire a local guide to explore the area beyond the beach. They can point out the different rock formations, explain their origins, and share stories about how the landscape has shaped the lives of the people who live there. Check out the Andromeda Botanic Gardens a short drive from Bathsheba – the gardens are great for exploring the flora of the region.
Safety First: Swimming at Bathsheba is dangerous due to strong currents and powerful waves. Admire the beauty from the shore, and leave the surfing to experienced professionals.
The Jewish Synagogue and Museum: A Story of Resilience
Located in Bridgetown, the Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum tells the story of Jewish settlement in Barbados dating back to the 17th century. This synagogue, one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere, was destroyed by a hurricane in 1831 and later rebuilt. The museum showcases the history of the Jewish community in Barbados, their contributions to the island’s economy and culture, and the challenges they faced throughout the ages. The adjacent cemetery contains tombstones dating back to the 1660s, providing a poignant reminder of the generations who came before. The synagogue is open to visitors, and guided tours are available for a small fee of approximately $12 USD. The synagogue is a landmark of Bridgetown’s Jewish history that should not be missed.
Respectful Attire: When visiting the synagogue, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
Bridgetown’s Historic Buildings: Whispers of the Past
Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with historic buildings. While many tourists focus on the main streets, venture off the beaten path to discover hidden architectural gems. Broad Street, with its impressive colonial architecture, is an obvious start, but explore the side streets like Swan Street. Buildings like the Mutual Building and the Parliament Buildings complex offer a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Look for plaques that provide historical information about the buildings and the people who occupied them. Take walking tours to unearth the stories embedded in their walls. Many of Bridgetown’s buildings have been repurposed, transforming former warehouses and offices into shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Free Activity: A self-guided walking tour of Bridgetown is a fantastic way to explore the city’s history without spending a lot of money. Pick up a map from the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. office for suggested routes and points of interest.
Gun Hill Signal Station: A Strategic Vantage Point
The Gun Hill Signal Station, one of several signal stations built in Barbados, offers panoramic views of the island and played a crucial role in communication during the 18th and 19th centuries. These stations used flags and semaphores to relay messages across the island, providing early warning of approaching ships or potential threats. The station features a striking statue of a lion, carved by British military personnel. Explore the station’s grounds, learn about the history of signal communication, and enjoy the spectacular views. The views span all the way to the west coast, to Bridgetown and the south coast.
Photo Opportunity: The Gun Hill Signal Station offers some of the best panoramic views in Barbados. Bring your camera and capture the island’s beauty from this historic vantage point. Expect to pay around $12 – 15USD.
Chalky Mount Potteries: A Tradition Carved in Clay
Tucked away in the parish of St. Andrew, Chalky Mount is a small village known for its traditional pottery. The potters of Chalky Mount have been working with clay from the nearby hills for generations, creating unique and functional pieces using techniques passed down through the family. Visit the potteries to watch the artisans at work, learn about the process of making pottery from scratch, and purchase unique souvenirs directly from the source. You can often try your hand at the pottery wheel but expect your creations to be far from perfect!
Support Local Artisans: Buying pottery directly from the potters of Chalky Mount is a excellent way to support local craftmanship and preserve this traditional art form.
The Arlington House Museum: A Merchant’s Tale in Speightstown
Speightstown, once a bustling port, offers a glimpse into Barbados’s maritime past. Arlington House Museum, an 18th-century building, tells the story of Speightstown’s history as a major trading hub. Through interactive exhibits, you’ll learn about the merchants who lived and worked there, the goods that were traded, and the challenges they faced. Arlington House is fully interactive; the museum aims to tell the complex stories of Speightstown and the importance of trade with the Americas and Europe. Check out this well-regarded museum; admission tickets run around $20USD.
Explore Speightstown: After visiting Arlington House, take some time to explore Speightstown. Stroll along the waterfront, browse the shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.
Farley Hill National Park: Ruins with a View
Farley Hill National Park is the skeletal remains of a spectacular Plantation Great House, complete with formal gardens, that was destroyed by fire in 1960s – the shell that remains offers dramatic views over the east coast, which is worth the drive. Once a grand plantation house, Farley Hill is now a shell, offering stunning views of the Atlantic coast. Explore the ruins, wander through the gardens, and imagine what life was like during the plantation era. Far out on the craggy St. Andrews coast, Farley Hill is a spot with a dark, turbulent story. However, it is better known as a movie set location in the films Island in the Sun (1957) and more recently, the mini-series The Plantation (1997). Farley Hill is worth a visit for the sheer drama of the location. Entry fees run around $5USD.
Picnic Spot: Farley Hill National Park is a great place to have a picnic. Pack a lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Animal Flower Cave: Caves, Oceans, and the North Point
Located at the northernmost point of Barbados, the Animal Flower Cave offers a different perspective on the island. The ‘Animal Flowers’ are actually sea anemones – they can be found in this unique place, although it has become rare to them, given constant disturbance in the cave. You can swim in its natural rock pool, whilst viewing the ocean through openings. Explore the cave’s chambers, admire the rock formations, and enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can easily walk around in the cave without bending although the climb to get in can be slippery when wet. The cave’s name comes from the sea anemones found in its pools. Guided tours are available, and there’s also a restaurant and craft shop on site. Cave tours cost around $10 USD.
Whale Watching: During the whale migration season (roughly February to April), the Animal Flower Cave is a good vantage point for spotting humpback whales. It offers a place to grab refreshments, too.
FAQ Section
What’s the best time to visit Barbados for exploring historical sites?
The dry season (December to May) is generally the best time to visit Barbados for exploring historical sites. The weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, be prepared for higher prices and more crowds during this peak season. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) can offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Are guided tours necessary for all of these historical sites?
While not always necessary, guided tours can enhance your experience at many of these historical sites. A knowledgeable guide can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the site, as well as answer any questions you may have. However, some sites, like Bridgetown and Bathsheba, can be easily explored on your own with a map and some research.
How easy is it to get around Barbados to visit these locations?
Getting around Barbados is relatively easy, with several options available. Public transportation, including buses and ZR vans, is affordable and frequent, but can be crowded. Rental cars are a good option for exploring the island at your own pace, but be aware that driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Taxis are readily available, but can be more expensive. For some locations, such as Harrison’s Cave or St. Nicholas Abbey, organized tours may be the easiest way to get there.
Are there any specific local customs I should be aware of when visiting these historical sites?
Barbados is a relatively conservative society, so it’s important to dress respectfully when visiting religious sites like the synagogue. It’s also customary to ask permission before taking photos of people. Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas. And remember to be polite and courteous to the locals; a simple “good morning” or “good afternoon” can go a long way.
What is the currency used in Barbados, and are credit cards widely accepted?
The currency used in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar (BBD). While US dollars are widely accepted, you’ll usually receive change in BBD. Credit cards are accepted in most tourist areas, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or venturing off the beaten path.
References
- Barbados Museum and Historical Society
- Harrison’s Cave Official Website
- St. Nicholas Abbey Official Website
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre
- Visit Barbados Official Website
Ready to uncover the hidden gems of Barbados? Don’t just stick to the beaches on your next trip. Dive deeper into the island’s fascinating history, explore these unique spots, and experience a side of Barbados that most tourists miss. Book that flight, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! The stories are waiting to be discovered, but you need to be there to hear them.
