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St. James Parish Church: A Historic Sanctuary

Discover Barbados' oldest church in Holetown, a serene sanctuary of history and stunning architecture from 1628.

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St. James Parish Church, located in Holetown, Barbados, is one of the oldest churches on the island, standing on consecrated land since 1628. Rebuilt in 1874, it showcases beautiful architecture, stained glass windows, and a rich history tied to the island's first English settlers.

A brief summary to St. James Parish Church

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a quieter, more contemplative experience.
  • Take a moment to admire the stained-glass windows and learn about their historical significance.
  • Explore the churchyard to discover the stories etched in the tombstones and vaults.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in central Holetown, St. James Parish Church is easily accessible on foot. Head north on Highway 1 (Queen Street). The church is located just north of Folkestone Park, on the inland side of the road. Look for the prominent coral stone building set back from the highway. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes service Holetown along Highway 1. From points south or north, take any bus route that lists Holetown as a destination. Alight at the Holetown bus stop, a short walk from the church. From the bus stop, walk north along Highway 1. The church will be on your left, just past Folkestone Park. The bus fare is BBD 3.50 per person per trip.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. Request a taxi to St. James Parish Church in Holetown. From a nearby location like Paynes Bay, expect to pay approximately BBD 20-25. From Grantley Adams International Airport, a taxi to Holetown will cost around BBD 122. Ensure the fare is agreed upon before starting the journey. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not common in Barbados.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Holetown via Highway 1. St. James Parish Church is located directly on Highway 1 and is easily visible. Limited parking is available on the street near the church. Alternatively, parking can be found behind the Holetown police station, a short walk from the church. Parking here is typically free.

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Discover more about St. James Parish Church

St. James Parish Church, situated in Holetown, St. James, Barbados, is more than just a place of worship; it's a living testament to the island's rich history and enduring spirit. Standing on what is known as 'God's Acre,' the church marks one of the oldest consecrated sites in Barbados, dating back to the first English settlement in 1627. The story of St. James begins with the arrival of English settlers who quickly recognized the need for a place of worship. In 1628, they erected a simple wooden structure, marking the beginning of a spiritual legacy that has lasted for centuries. This humble building was eventually replaced by a more substantial coral stone edifice in the early 1690s, a testament to the growing community and their commitment to establishing a permanent place of worship. Over the years, St. James Parish Church has weathered numerous storms, both literally and figuratively. Hurricanes in 1675 and 1780 caused significant damage, but the church persevered. In 1874, after nearly two centuries, the original stone walls began to show their age. A significant renovation project was undertaken, resulting in a larger, more robust structure that was consecrated in 1875. Today, much of that 1874 structure remains, a testament to the enduring craftsmanship of the past. Stepping inside St. James is like stepping back in time. The interior is adorned with stunning stained glass windows, each telling a story of faith and history. Light streams through these vibrant panes, casting colorful patterns across the warm wooden pews and creating an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation. The marble wall sculptures are another highlight, showcasing intricate designs and skilled artistry. One of the church's most prized possessions is its historic bell, dating back to 1696. Inscribed with 'God Bless King William,' this bell predates the American Liberty Bell by over half a century and was cast at the same Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London that produced both the Liberty Bell and the Great Bell of Big Ben. The Baptistery contains the original font which is over 300 years old and bears the inscription "Debit Richardus Walter to the Church of St. James Anno 1684".

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