Background

Christ Church Parish Church: A Testament to Resilience and Mystery

Discover a historic Barbadian church with tales of moving coffins, resilience, and stunning views of Oistins Bay.

Overlooking Oistins Bay, Christ Church Parish Church is more than just a religious site; it's a landmark that embodies the spirit of Barbados. Rebuilt multiple times due to natural disasters, the current structure, dating back to 1935, stands as the fifth church on this location. The churchyard is also home to the mysterious Chase Vault.

A brief summary to Oistins

  • Oistins, Christ Church, BB

Local tips

  • Explore the churchyard to see the location of the Chase Vault and learn about the unexplained mystery.
  • Attend a Sunday service to experience the church as a place of worship and community.
  • Take photos of the scenic views of Oistins Bay from the church grounds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, take the Transport Board bus route 12A, 12F, 27, 31 or 34 to Oistins Terminal. From the terminal, Christ Church Parish Church is a short walk uphill. The bus fare is BDS$3.50.

  • Taxi

    From Grantley Adams International Airport, a taxi to Christ Church Parish Church will cost approximately BDS$48 (USD$24). The journey takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at the airport.

  • Walking

    From Oistins, Christ Church Parish Church is a 10-15 minute walk uphill. Follow the road towards Church Hill. Note that the walk involves a moderately steep incline.

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Discover more about Oistins

Christ Church Parish Church, perched on Church Hill in Christ Church, Barbados, offers a scenic view of Oistins Bay and a captivating history of perseverance. The original wooden church was built around 1629 near Dover Beach, but a flood in 1669 swept it away, scattering coffins and bones. Undeterred, a second church was erected, only to be destroyed by the hurricane of 1780. A third church, constructed after 1786, met a similar fate in the hurricane of 1831. After this, construction of a fourth church began in 1835. However, it was destroyed by fire in 1935. The present-day church, consecrated in 1939, incorporates three walls and the west tower from its predecessor. Inside, stained glass windows depict the Nativity and Crucifixion. The church's story extends beyond its architecture, with the infamous Chase Vault in the churchyard. Legend has it that coffins within the sealed vault mysteriously moved, sparking fear and supernatural explanations. Despite investigations, the mystery remains unsolved, adding to the church's allure. Visitors are welcome to explore the church and its grounds, including the Chase Vault, though the coffins are now buried elsewhere. The church holds regular Sunday services and hosts weddings, continuing its role as a vital part of the community.

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