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Museum of Antigua and Barbuda: A Journey Through Time

Discover Antigua and Barbuda's captivating past at the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, housed in St. John's oldest building.

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Housed in the historic 1750 St. John's Courthouse, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda showcases the islands' rich history, from their geological origins to political independence. Explore exhibits on Amerindian life, colonial history, and Antiguan culture.

A brief summary to Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

  • Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Check for special exhibitions or events during your visit.
  • Take a guided tour for an in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
  • Explore the museum's gift shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda is centrally located on Long Street in St. John's, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in the city center. From the cruise port at Heritage Quay, walk east along High Street, then turn left onto Long Street. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    St. John's has two bus stations: East Bus Station and West Bus Station. From either station, you can walk to the museum in about 10-15 minutes. From the East Bus Station, walk west on Independence Avenue, turn left onto Long Street, and continue until you reach the museum. From the West Bus Station, walk east along Market Street, turn right onto Long Street, and the museum will be on your right. Bus fares within St. John's are typically around EC$3. Buses generally operate between 5:30 am and 6:00 pm.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout St. John's. A short taxi ride from Heritage Quay or the V.C. Bird International Airport to the museum will cost approximately US$7-US$24. Taxis in Antigua operate on fixed fares rather than meters. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, located in St. John's, offers a comprehensive look into the captivating history of these Caribbean islands. Established in 1985, the museum resides within the former St. John's Courthouse, a building dating back to 1750 and believed to be the oldest structure in the city. Designed by architect Peter Harrison, the courthouse has served various functions over the years, including as a Court of Justice and meeting place for the Legislative Council and Assembly. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits that trace Antigua and Barbuda's story from its geological birth to its modern-day independence. Displays cover the islands' geography, geology, and the material culture of its past and present. Key exhibits highlight the lives of the Amerindian peoples, the impact of European colonization, and the evolution of local traditions and customs. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, including archaeological finds, historical documents, and photographs. A life-sized replica of an Arawak house offers a glimpse into the lives of the island's early inhabitants. Models of sugar plantations illustrate the historical significance of the sugar industry. The museum also acknowledges the more recent cultural practices with sections dedicated to local music, dance, and art. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the exhibit featuring Viv Richards' cricket bat. The museum is actively involved in preserving and promoting the islands' heritage through education and research. It houses an extensive research library open to the public and offers educational programs for schoolchildren. The museum also hosts cultural evenings and distributes a newsletter to its members.

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