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The Cage: A Symbol of Montego Bay's History

Explore The Cage in Montego Bay: a historic landmark offering a glimpse into Jamaica's past and a reminder of resilience and cultural heritage.

The Cage, a small stone structure in the heart of Montego Bay's Sam Sharpe Square, stands as a poignant reminder of the city's past. Originally built in 1806, it served as a temporary lockup for runaway slaves, disorderly seamen, and vagrants. Today, it houses a foreign currency exchange kiosk, offering a glimpse into Jamaica's complex history.

A brief summary to The Cage

Local tips

  • Visit The Cage during the day to fully appreciate its historical context and the surrounding culture.
  • Combine your visit to The Cage with a tour of nearby historical sites in Sam Sharpe Square for a more enriching experience.
  • Bring your camera to capture the unique architecture of The Cage and the vibrant atmosphere of Sam Sharpe Square.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cage is located in the heart of Montego Bay's Sam Sharpe Square, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. If you're coming from the Montego Bay Craft Market, exit the market and walk straight along Harbour Street until you reach Sam Sharpe Square. The Cage will be on the north-west corner of the square. From the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue), walk east towards the city center until you reach Sam Sharpe Square. The Cage will be visible on your left. There is no cost to visit The Cage.

  • Public Transport

    To reach The Cage via public transport, take a local bus or route taxi heading towards the city center of Montego Bay. Inform the driver that you're going to Sam Sharpe Square. Once you arrive, The Cage is located on the square's north-west corner. Route taxi fares in Montego Bay cost approximately $113 JMD base rate, plus $7 JMD per kilometer. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Montego Bay and offer a convenient way to reach The Cage. Simply tell the driver that you wish to go to The Cage in Sam Sharpe Square. The ride should take approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Agree on a price before you enter the taxi. Taxi fares will vary depending on the distance, but a short trip within Montego Bay typically costs between $10-$40 USD.

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Discover more about The Cage

Located in the bustling Sam Sharpe Square, The Cage is a historical landmark that encapsulates Montego Bay's intriguing past. Constructed in 1806, the structure initially served as a temporary jail, holding individuals such as runaway slaves, drunken sailors, and other vagrants. The bell installed in the belfry in 1811 would ring to warn enslaved people to leave the town. Originally made of wood, the structure was replaced with a more robust stone building in 1822 after being damaged by its occupants. Over the years, The Cage has been repurposed, serving as a clinic, dispensary, travel agency office, the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce office, a cambio, and even a museum. Today, The Cage houses a foreign currency exchange kiosk, a testament to its continued adaptation to the needs of the city. Despite its small size, The Cage remains a significant historical site, drawing visitors interested in learning about Montego Bay's heritage and the struggles of its past. It stands as a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the complexities of Jamaica's cultural heritage.

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