Montefiore Fountain, Saint Philip Travel Guide

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Discover the Montefiore Fountain in Bridgetown, a historical landmark honoring John Castello Montefiore with neo-Gothic architecture and serene beauty.

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Montefiore Fountain

The Montefiore Fountain, located on Coleridge Street in Bridgetown, Barbados, is a neo-Gothic cast-iron fountain gifted to the city in 1865. It commemorates John Castello Montefiore, a respected merchant who died of cholera. Although intended as a drinking fountain, it no longer dispenses water but remains a significant historical and architectural landmark.

A brief summary to Montefiore Fountain

Coleridge St, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Montefiore Fountain.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby parks and local markets for a full cultural experience.
Take note of the Codd's House Monument across the street, which adds to the historical context of the area.

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Explore Montefiore Fountain on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Montefiore Fountain, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

If you are in the heart of Bridgetown, start at National Heroes Square. Walk southeast towards Broad Street and continue until you reach Coleridge Street. Turn right onto Coleridge Street. The Montefiore Fountain is located a short distance down this street, in the center of a roundabout. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

From the main bus terminal in Bridgetown (Fairchild Street or Princess Alice Highway), take any bus heading towards the central area. Ask the driver to let you off at a stop near Broad Street or the Public Library on Coleridge Street. From there, it's a short walk to the fountain. The bus fare is $3.50 BBD. Ensure you have local currency, as foreign coins are not accepted on the Transport Board buses.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Take a taxi from anywhere in Bridgetown to Coleridge Street. Most taxi drivers will know the location of the Montefiore Fountain. Confirm the price before starting your journey; a short taxi ride within Bridgetown should cost approximately $20 - $39 BBD, depending on the starting point and traffic. Tipping your driver around 10% of your agreed-upon fare is customary.

Discover more about Montefiore Fountain

The Montefiore Fountain is a captivating historical landmark in Bridgetown, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past and architectural grandeur. This ornate fountain, located on Coleridge Street, stands as a tribute to John Castello Montefiore, a respected merchant who succumbed to cholera in 1854. His son, John Montefiore, gifted the fountain to the city in 1865 to honor his father's legacy.Originally situated in Beckwith Place, Lower Broad Street, the fountain was relocated to its current location in 1940. The Montefiore Fountain is a fine example of neo-Gothic decorative art, constructed from cast iron. Its design incorporates marble statues that represent the virtues of Justice, Fortitude, Temperance, and Prudence, reflecting the values of the era in which it was created. The fountain was inaugurated on November 2, 1865, and was lauded as "a little gem of architectural beauty, there being nothing in Barbados to compare it with".Ironically, the fountain has been without running water for many years. Despite this, its aesthetic appeal and historical importance have never diminished. The fountain's presence played a role in Bridgetown and its Garrison being nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the Montefiore Fountain continues to attract visitors with its intricate detailing and serene atmosphere. It serves as a gathering spot for both locals and tourists, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The surrounding greenery enhances the fountain's appeal, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet retreat.While visiting, take note of the Codd's House Monument, which stands across from the Montefiore Fountain on Coleridge Street. It commemorates one of the residences owned by businessman William Codd, which was leased to the Barbados government from 1837 to 1849, serving as the New Town Hall and the site of Parliament. The proximity of these landmarks enriches the historical context of the area, offering a deeper understanding of Bridgetown's past.