Saint Michael reveals itself through the many layers of Bridgetown’s history. Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison comprises a well-preserved old town that took shape in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Within this area are the galleries of the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, housed in buildings that served as a 19th-century military prison. The museum’s historic setting tells a story of its own, while the exhibitions span a much broader period.
History, Nature and Democracy
At the Jubilee Gallery, the exhibition “In search of Bim” traces Barbados’ prehistoric and historical development through the 1940s. The Harewood Gallery has a different focus: exhibitions and dioramas illustrate the ecology of the coral reef and its marine life, as well as the development of the mangrove swamps and seagrass beds. The galleries thus bring historical and natural history perspectives together.
In the west wing of the Barbados Parliament Buildings, an interactive exhibition uses audiovisual displays and text panels to trace the development of democracy in Barbados. This adds a political perspective to the historical and ecological themes of the museum galleries. If you plan to visit the exhibition, check the current visitor arrangements separately.
Churches, Remembrance and Place Names
St Mary’s Anglican Church stands on Bridgetown’s first consecrated site; the present church was consecrated in 1827. The Emancipation Statue, also known as the “Bussa” statue, was erected to commemorate the end of slavery and is located on the outskirts of Bridgetown. The name Rihanna Drive also holds a piece of local history: the street where Rihanna grew up was renamed Rihanna Drive in 2017. The church, monument and street name point to different chapters of history.
Explore Bridgetown on Foot and Discover Cricket
The Barbados Museum & Historical Society offers a two-hour walking tour of Bridgetown. It introduces historic sites and architecture of cultural significance and takes place by appointment during opening hours, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Confirm the current arrangements before your trip. Kensington Oval cricket stadium was founded in 1882; tours of the stadium are available. Ask the venue about current availability.
Market and Food
Temple Yard in Cheapside, Bridgetown, is an open-air market for food and crafts and is known as a local Rastafarian street market. Ital-style vegetarian dishes are available at Temple Yard daily; check on site whether this offering has changed. Specific vendors and goods may vary. This clearly identified food offering and the crafts add another local dimension to Saint Michael’s historic sites and exhibitions.
Discover more destinations: Haggatt Hall, Saint Philip, Saint George, Saint Thomas, St James, Saint Joseph, Saint John, St Lucy.
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