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Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout: A Symbol of Freedom

A powerful monument in Bridgetown, symbolizing freedom and resilience, honoring Bussa and the struggle against slavery in Barbados.

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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. It honors Bussa, who led a major slave rebellion in 1816, and symbolizes the breaking of the chains of slavery.

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 early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Take time to read the inscriptions and educational plaques around the statue to fully appreciate its historical significance.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby Bridgetown to experience the local culture, shops, and eateries.
  • Bring your camera to capture the impressive statue against the backdrop of the bustling roundabout.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in central Bridgetown, walking to the Emancipation Statue is a viable option. Head east, following signs for the ABC Highway or Highway 5. The Bussa Roundabout is a prominent landmark and is approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the heart of Bridgetown. Be mindful of traffic when crossing streets.

  • Public Transport

    From the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, walk to the nearby Fairchild Street Bus Terminal (approximately 10-15 minutes). From there, take any bus heading towards the ABC Highway or St. Michael. Look for buses numbered 10E, 10S, 19, 31, or 28. The bus fare is BBD $3.50. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at the Bussa Roundabout. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, taxis are readily available. A taxi ride to the Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey. Expect to pay around BBD 25-35 for the trip. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available in Barbados, so taxis are the most reliable option.

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Discover more about Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout

Located at the J.T.C. Ramsay Roundabout on the ABC Highway, the Emancipation Statue, often called the Bussa Statue, is a powerful symbol of freedom in Barbados. Unveiled in 1985, it commemorates the 150th anniversary of emancipation and honors Bussa, who led a significant slave rebellion in 1816. The statue isn't necessarily a depiction of Bussa himself, but rather represents the collective spirit of freedom and resistance. The bronze sculpture, created by Karl Broodhagen, portrays a muscular figure breaking free from chains, reaching towards the sky. This imagery embodies the end of slavery and the hope for a better future. The statue is inscribed on both sides, one side with the words: "Lick an Lock-up Done Wid, Hurray fuh Jin-Jin [Queen Victoria]", a chant from the time of emancipation. The other side features text from the Abolition Act of 1833. Bussa's Rebellion, though suppressed, was a pivotal event in Barbados' history, demonstrating the enslaved people's desire for freedom. Today, the statue serves as a reminder of the island's complex history and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. Every year on August 1st, Barbados celebrates Emancipation Day with a march towards the statue, honoring the ancestors and celebrating freedom.

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