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Barbados Museum & Historical Society: A Window into Barbadian Heritage

Explore Barbados' captivating past at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, nestled in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Housed in a 19th-century military prison, the Barbados Museum & Historical Society showcases the island's rich history, culture, and natural heritage through diverse artifacts and exhibits. From Amerindian settlements to independence, explore the captivating story of Barbados.

A brief summary to Barbados Museum & Historical Society

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • The Shilstone Memorial Library is an excellent resource for genealogical research, open Monday to Friday.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, the Barbados Museum is accessible via public buses. Buses operated by the Barbados Transport Board are blue with a yellow stripe. The standard fare is BBD 3.50, payable in cash. Buses depart from Fairchild Street Terminal and Princess Alice Terminal. Check the Transport Board's website for schedules.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bridgetown. Look for vehicles with a 'Z' on their license plates. A taxi from the city center to the museum costs approximately BBD 19-74. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. There is no Uber in Barbados.

  • Walking

    The Barbados Museum is located approximately 2.9 km (1.8 miles) from Bridgetown. From the city center, walk southeast along Dalkeith Road. The walk takes around 30-40 minutes. Note that sidewalks may be narrow in some areas.

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Discover more about Barbados Museum & Historical Society

The Barbados Museum & Historical Society, established in 1933, stands as a guardian of Barbadian heritage. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, the museum occupies the former British military prison, dating back to 1817. Its mandate is to collect, document, and conserve evidence of Barbados' cultural, historical, and environmental heritage. The museum's extensive collection of over 500,000 artifacts narrates the island's story from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Exhibits cover social history, fine art, and African history. Visitors can explore antique maps, paintings, and archaeological finds, offering insights into the island's past. Learn about the early Amerindian settlers, the arrival of Europeans, the transatlantic slave trade, and the journey to independence. The Shilstone Memorial Library within the museum provides access to rare West Indian documents and photographs, facilitating genealogical and historical research. The Museum Shop offers unique Barbadian souvenirs, including prints and books. The museum integrates community interests into its exhibition programming and project development.

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