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Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout

A powerful symbol of freedom and resilience, the Emancipation Statue commemorates Barbados's journey towards equality and honors national hero, Bussa.

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The Emancipation Statue, also known as the Bussa Statue, is a bronze sculpture in Bridgetown, Barbados, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people. Located at the Bussa Roundabout, it honors Bussa, who led a major slave rebellion in 1816. The statue symbolizes freedom and the strength of the Barbadian people.

A brief summary to Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout

  • Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
  • Take time to read the plaque nearby to fully appreciate the historical significance of the statue.
  • Explore the nearby shops and eateries for authentic Barbadian cuisine after your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Emancipation Statue via public transport, take a bus or ZR van heading towards Bridgetown. Buses are blue with a yellow stripe, while ZR vans are yellow. Both cost BBD 3.50 per journey. Inform the driver that you want to stop at the Emancipation Statue Roundabout. Note that Transport Board buses require exact change in Barbadian currency.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados and can be identified by the 'Z' on their license plates. A taxi ride within Bridgetown costs around BBD 20.00, plus BBD 3.80 per kilometer. A 5km ride in Bridgetown will cost approximately BBD 39. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Tipping 10% is customary for good service.

  • Driving

    If driving from anywhere in Saint George, head towards Highway 1 and follow the signs directing you towards Bridgetown. The Emancipation Statue is located at a roundabout where Highway 1 intersects with the road into Bridgetown. Parking is available nearby, but check for parking regulations to avoid fines. From the Emancipation statue (Bussa) roundabout on ABC Highway, head towards Bridgetown; At the second set of traffic lights, bear left and turn right at the roundabout. The house is across the road from St. Winifred's school; however, parking will be on the empty lot next to Belmont funeral home.

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Discover more about Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout

The Emancipation Statue, more commonly known as the Bussa Statue, stands proudly in the heart of Bridgetown, Barbados, serving as a potent symbol of freedom and the indomitable spirit of the Barbadian people. This imposing bronze sculpture, the work of renowned Barbadian artist Karl Broodhagen, was unveiled in 1985 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in Barbados and to honor Bussa, a West African man who was sold into slavery and became a leader of the enslaved people. Located at the junction of the ABC Highway and Highway 5, the statue is positioned in the center of a busy roundabout, often referred to as the Bussa Roundabout. This prominent location ensures the monument is visible to many residents and visitors, serving as a constant reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the past. The statue depicts a muscular, defiant figure breaking free from chains, his arms raised towards the sky in a gesture of liberation. The powerful imagery captures the essence of emancipation and the determination of the enslaved people to overcome oppression. The statue is inscribed on both sides, with one side reading: "Lick an Lock-up Done Wid, Hurray fuh Jin-Jin [Queen Victoria]". This chant was hailed by thousands of Barbadians when slavery was officially abolished. The other side is inscribed with text from the Abolition Act of 1833. Bussa's rebellion, though ultimately unsuccessful, is considered a watershed moment in Barbadian history. It demonstrated the unwavering desire for freedom among the enslaved population and contributed to the growing momentum for abolition. In 1998, Bussa was named one of the ten official National Heroes of Barbados for his significant contribution to the island's history and development.

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