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St. James Parish Church: A Historic Sanctuary in Holetown

Discover Barbados' oldest church in Holetown, a serene sanctuary of history, architecture, and Barbadian heritage.

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St. James Parish Church, located in Holetown, Barbados, is one of the oldest churches on the island, dating back to 1628. It stands on consecrated land known as 'God's Acre' and showcases a blend of architectural styles reflecting its rich history.

A brief summary to St. James Parish Church

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the church's rich history and significance.
  • Explore the churchyard to see the ancient tombstones and learn about the people buried there.
  • Attend a Sunday service to experience the church's vibrant community and traditions.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Folkestone Marine Park for snorkeling and relaxation.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Holetown, St. James Parish Church is easily accessible on foot. From the center of Holetown, walk north along Highway 1. The church is a short distance from the town center, just past Folkestone Park, on the left-hand side of the road. The walk is generally flat and takes only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, head to the main bus terminal on Princess Alice Highway. Look for buses heading to Holetown (routes 1B, 1C, 1G, 1SA, 27, 1C1, 1H, 1, 29, 59, 1A, 2A, 1D, 1A1, 1CB, SE 1). The Barbados Transport Board buses (blue with yellow stripe) and privately-owned minibuses (yellow with blue stripe) all serve this route. The ride takes approximately 25-30 minutes. Alight in Holetown and walk towards Highway 1; the church will be a short walk to your left. The bus fare is BBD 3.50 (approximately USD 1.75); have exact change for Transport Board buses.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. From any point in Holetown or a nearby location like Sandy Lane, simply request a taxi to St. James Parish Church. The journey from central Holetown is very short. Fares within Holetown start at BBD 20.0, with each KM priced at BBD 5.0. A 5km ride in Holetown costs about BBD 45. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxis are easily identified by the 'Z' designation on their license plates.

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Discover more about St. James Parish Church

St. James Parish Church, situated in Holetown, St. James, Barbados, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest and most historically significant churches on the island. The church is located near the site where the first English settlers landed in 1627, making it a site of immense historical importance. The original wooden structure, built in 1628, was eventually replaced by a coral-stone building in the early 1690s after a devastating hurricane in 1675. Over the centuries, St. James Parish Church has undergone several renovations and expansions. In 1874, the church was significantly rebuilt, with the nave roof raised on new pillars and arches. The enlarged building was consecrated in 1875. Today, the church stands as a testament to Barbadian history and resilience, blending various architectural styles that reflect its evolving story. Inside the church, visitors can admire beautiful stained-glass windows, including the Ascension window behind the altar and the window in the Baptistry depicting St. Philip baptizing the Ethiopian Eunuch. The church also features a collection of marble wall sculptures and a baptismal font dating back to 1684. The church's bell, dating back to 1696, predates the American Liberty Bell and is one of the oldest in Barbados. The churchyard contains some of the oldest graves on the island, with many tombs located above ground. St. James Parish Church is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take daily tours to learn about the church's history and admire its historical artifacts. The church also hosts regular services and is a popular venue for weddings. The surrounding area of Holetown offers additional attractions, including Folkestone Marine Park and various restaurants and shops.

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