Sam Sharpe Square, Negril Area Travel Guide

4.2 (1336)

Explore Montego Bay's historic heart: Sam Sharpe Square, where Jamaican history and vibrant culture converge in a bustling downtown setting.

Home
Travel Guides
Jamaica
Negril Area
Sam Sharpe Square

Sam Sharpe Square, located in the center of Montego Bay, Jamaica, is a historic square that offers a glimpse into the island's past and present. Named in honor of Jamaican National Hero Samuel Sharpe, the square is surrounded by historical buildings and monuments, including the Montego Bay Civic Centre and The Cage. It's a bustling hub where visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere of Montego Bay.

A brief summary to Sam Sharpe Square

F3FG+CRX, Montego Bay, JM

Monday 10 am-7 pm
Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
Thursday 10 am-7 pm
Friday 10 am-7 pm
Saturday 10 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sam Sharpe Square.

Take your time to explore the historical monuments and learn about Sam Sharpe's role in Jamaica's fight against slavery.
Visit the Montego Bay Civic Centre to delve deeper into the history and culture of the area.
Be prepared for a sensory overload as the square is bustling with activity, including street vendors and local taxis.
Be cautious around the fountain, as the cobblestone area is a roundabout with active traffic.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Blue Hole Mineral Spring | Jamaica

Barney's Flower & Hummingbird Garden Jamaica

Negril cliffs

West End Lighthouse, Jamaica

Welcome to Negril Sign

Explore Sam Sharpe Square on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Sam Sharpe Square, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Sam Sharpe Square is located in the heart of downtown Montego Bay, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels, shops, and attractions. From the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue), walk inland, heading east; the square is a few blocks away. Look for the clock tower of the Montego Bay Civic Centre to orient yourself. The square is free to enter and explore.
Public Transport

Local buses and route taxis frequently serve the downtown area of Montego Bay. From the bus park, Sam Sharpe Square is a short walk away. Route taxis are a cheap way to get around. Fares typically start around JMD 113 with a JMD 7 per km. Be sure to confirm the route and fare with the driver before you get in.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Montego Bay. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within Montego Bay will likely cost between $0.80 (JMD 136) and $3.80 (JMD 655). Several taxi services operate in Montego Bay, including JCAL Taxi (+1 (876) 952-7574), JUTA Taxi (+1 (876) 952-0813), and Webb Taxi Jamaica (+1 (876) 360-3427). Uber also operates in Montego Bay.

Discover more about Sam Sharpe Square

Sam Sharpe Square, formerly known as Charles Square, stands as a testament to Jamaica's rich history and its struggle for freedom. Renamed in 1976 to honor Samuel Sharpe, a key figure in the 1831-32 Emancipation War, the square serves as a focal point in downtown Montego Bay. Sharpe, a Baptist minister, led a peaceful protest against slavery that evolved into a major rebellion, ultimately contributing to the abolition of slavery in Jamaica. He was executed in the Montego Bay market place on May 23, 1832, for his role in the uprising.The square is home to several significant landmarks :* **The Sam Sharpe Monument:** Designed by Kay Sullivan, this bronze monument portrays Sharpe holding a Bible and addressing his people, commemorating his courageous fight against slavery. * **The Cage:** Originally built in 1806, this small brick and stone structure was used as a jail for runaway slaves, unruly seamen, and vagrants. Today, it serves as a souvenir shop. * **The Civic Centre:** This reconstructed building, originally built in 1803 as the Montego Bay Courthouse, now houses the Montego Bay Museum, showcasing the area's history and culture. It was here that Samuel Sharpe was tried. * **The Freedom Monument:** Erected in 2007, this monument memorializes the enslaved people who participated in the 1831-32 war of emancipation. * **The fountain:** A cast iron fountain in the middle of the square's roundabout that was donated by Captain J Kerr, a banana baron.Sam Sharpe Square is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant hub of activity. Street vendors line the square, selling a variety of goods, while local taxis come and go. The square offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Jamaican culture, explore nearby attractions, and appreciate the historical significance of this iconic landmark.