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Delving into Antiguan History: The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda

Explore Antigua and Barbuda's captivating history and vibrant culture at the heart of St. John's in a beautifully preserved colonial courthouse.

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Housed in St. John's oldest building, the former colonial courthouse, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda showcases the islands' history from their geological origins to independence. Exhibits feature Arawak artifacts, colonial relics, and insights into the sugar trade and local 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 on a weekday morning for a quieter experience and to avoid crowds.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and displays.
  • Check the museum's website or inquire at the front desk about guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
  • Don't miss the exhibit featuring Sir Vivian Richards' cricket bat, a symbol of Antiguan national pride.
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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. From the cruise ship terminal at Heritage Quay, walk south along Redcliffe Street, then turn left onto Long Street. The museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport, take any bus that stops at the West Bus Station in St. John's. From the bus station, walk east along Market Street, then turn right onto Long Street. The museum will be on your left. Bus fares are typically around EC$3.00 (approximately US$1.11) for a short trip within St. John's.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout St. John's. A short taxi ride from the V.C. Bird International Airport to the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda will cost approximately US$12 (EC$32). From other locations within St. John's, expect to pay between US$6-US$12 (EC$16-EC$32), depending on the distance. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. There is often parking available nearby, such as at Edris Parking, but it may have a parking fee.

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Discover more about Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, situated in the heart of St. John's, offers a captivating journey through the islands' rich history and cultural heritage. Established in 1985, the museum occupies the historic St. John's Courthouse, constructed in 1747 and believed to be the oldest building in the city. This colonial-era structure, designed by architect Peter Harrison, once served as the center of justice and governance, housing the Court of Justice on the ground floor and meeting rooms for the Legislative Council and Assembly upstairs. Inside, visitors can explore a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits that chronicle Antigua and Barbuda's story from its geological beginnings to its modern-day independence. The museum's displays shed light on the islands' indigenous heritage, featuring a life-size replica of an Arawak house and exhibits showcasing pottery, basketry, and tools used by the Arawak people. These exhibits provide insight into the culture and traditions of the island's earliest inhabitants. The museum also delves into the colonial era, exploring the impact of European settlement and the transatlantic slave trade. Exhibits on sugar plantations offer a glimpse into the lives of enslaved Africans who toiled in the fields, while displays of colonial-era documents and artifacts provide a broader understanding of this transformative period in the islands' history. In addition to its historical exhibits, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda also celebrates the islands' contemporary culture. Highlights include a display featuring the cricket bat used by Antiguan sports hero Sir Vivian Richards in a test match against England. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits and community events that highlight local artists and cultural practices. Outside the museum, visitors can view a collection of preserved sugar cane railway locomotives that once worked on the Antiguan rail system. These locomotives offer a tangible reminder of the islands' agricultural past and the importance of the sugar industry in shaping its economy and society.

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