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Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout: A Symbol of Freedom

A powerful symbol of freedom and resilience, commemorating the end of slavery in Barbados and honoring those who fought for emancipation.

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The Emancipation Statue, also known as the Bussa Statue, is a bronze sculpture located at a bustling roundabout in Bridgetown, Barbados. Created by Karl Broodhagen in 1985, it commemorates the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery and honors Bussa, who led a major slave rebellion in 1816. The statue symbolizes the breaking of chains and the triumph over oppression.

A brief summary to Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout

  • Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a quieter, more reflective experience.
  • Take time to read the inscriptions around the base of the statue to fully understand its historical significance and the story of Bussa.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby Bridgetown to experience the local culture, shops, and eateries.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Fairchild Street Bus Terminal in Bridgetown, several bus routes pass the Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout. Look for buses heading along the ABC Highway (Highway 1 or 5). The fare is BBD $3.50 per person. Inform the driver you wish to disembark at the Bussa Roundabout. The bus stop is a short walk from the statue.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bridgetown. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout will cost approximately BBD $20-30, depending on traffic. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Ride-sharing services may also be available.

  • Walking

    If you are already in central Bridgetown, the Emancipation Statue is accessible by foot. Head east, following the ABC Highway (Highway 5). The walk is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from National Heroes Square and takes about 30-40 minutes. Be mindful of traffic as you approach the roundabout.

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Discover more about Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout

The Emancipation Statue, more commonly known as the Bussa Statue, stands as a powerful and poignant monument in Bridgetown, Barbados. Located at the center of the J.T.C. Ramsay roundabout, where the ABC Highway intersects with Highway 5, this iconic landmark serves as a constant reminder of the island's journey from slavery to freedom, honoring the courage and resilience of the Barbadian people who fought for emancipation. Erected in 1985, the bronze sculpture by Barbadian-Guyanese artist Karl Broodhagen depicts a muscular figure breaking free from chains, symbolizing the breaking of the shackles of slavery. While many Barbadians refer to the statue as Bussa, it represents the collective enslaved people of Barbados. Bussa, a National Hero, led a significant slave rebellion in 1816, marking a pivotal event in the island's history. Although the rebellion was ultimately unsuccessful, it demonstrated the enslaved people's unwavering desire for freedom. The statue is inscribed on both sides, with one side carrying the words of the chant that thousands of Barbadians hailed when slavery was officially abolished: "Lick an Lock-up Done Wid, Hurray fuh Jin-Jin [Queen Victoria]". The other side features text from the Abolition Act of 1833. Visiting the Emancipation Statue offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the history of slavery in Barbados and the Caribbean. Every year on August 1st, Barbados celebrates Emancipation Day, commemorating the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Crowds gather at the Bussa Roundabout to pay homage to their ancestors and celebrate the triumph of freedom over oppression. The statue serves as a gathering place for celebrations, commemorations, and educational events.

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