The Cage: A Symbol of Montego Bay's History

Explore The Cage in Montego Bay: a historic landmark that encapsulates Jamaica's complex colonial past and the resilience of its people.

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

A brief summary to The Cage

The Cage, St James St, Montego Bay, JM
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Local tips

Visit The Cage as part of a walking tour of Montego Bay to fully appreciate its historical context.
Take a moment to reflect on the building's history and the stories it holds within its walls.
Explore Sam Sharpe Square and its surrounding historical landmarks to gain a deeper understanding of Montego Bay's heritage.

Getting There

Walking

The Cage is located in Sam Sharpe Square in the center of Montego Bay, making it easily accessible on foot from most downtown locations. From the cruise port, it's approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head east towards the city center, and you'll find the square well-signposted. No costs are associated with walking.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Montego Bay, especially at the cruise port and major hotels. A taxi ride from the Montego Bay cruise port to The Cage in Sam Sharpe Square should take around 5-10 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, but expect to pay approximately JMD 1,740 (€10). Ensure the taxi is licensed with red license plates.
Public Transport

Public transport in Montego Bay consists of buses and route taxis. While route taxis are a cheaper option, they can be crowded and less convenient for visitors. Look for route taxis heading towards the city center and Sam Sharpe Square. The fare should be around JMD 113 (€0.65) as a base rate, plus JMD 7 (€0.04) per km. Montego Bay Metro also provides transportation via several routes in western Jamaica. Check their routes for access to Sam Sharpe Square.

Discover more about The Cage

Located in the heart of Montego Bay's bustling Sam Sharpe Square, The Cage is a small but historically significant structure that has witnessed the evolution of the city. Constructed in 1806, the building initially served as a temporary jail, housing runaway slaves, drunken sailors, and other so-called vagrants. The bell in the belfry, installed in 1811, would ring at 2 PM and 3 PM as a warning for enslaved people to leave town or face imprisonment. Originally made of wood, the structure was replaced with a more robust stone building in 1822 due to damage inflicted by its occupants. Over the years, The Cage has been repurposed, serving as a clinic, dispensary, the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce office, a cambio (currency exchange), and even a museum. Today, The Cage stands as a tangible link to Montego Bay's past, representing both a dark chapter of slavery and the resilience of the Jamaican people. It's a popular stop for visitors interested in the city's history and heritage, offering a glimpse into the complexities of its colonial past. While it currently houses a foreign currency exchange kiosk, its historical significance remains undiminished.