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The Cage: A Symbol of Montego Bay's History

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Explore The Cage in Montego Bay: A historic landmark with stories of resilience in the heart of Sam Sharpe Square.

The Cage, a small but historically significant structure in Montego Bay's Sam Sharpe Square, was originally built in 1806 as a temporary jail. Over the years, it has served various purposes, reflecting the evolving history of the city.

A brief summary to The Cage

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Cage.

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

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cage is located in Sam Sharpe Square in the heart of Montego Bay. From the Montego Bay Craft Market, walk east on Harbour Street, then turn left onto St. James Street. The Cage will be on your right. From the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue), walk towards the beach and turn left onto St. James Street. Walk straight for about 15 minutes; The Cage will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    From the Hip Strip, take a local bus heading towards the city center. Ask the driver to drop you off at St. James Street, from where you can walk towards the waterfront. The Cage will be a short walk down the street on your right. Bus fare is approximately $113 JMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Montego Bay. Tell the driver to take you to The Cage in Sam Sharpe Square on St. James Street. The ride should take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure you agree on a price before starting your ride. A short taxi ride in Montego Bay typically costs between $10-$40 USD.

Discover more about The Cage

Located in the heart of Montego Bay at Sam Sharpe Square, The Cage stands as a tangible link to the city's past. Constructed initially of wood in 1806, it served as a temporary lockup for runaway slaves, disorderly seamen, and vagrants. The original wooden structure was replaced with a more robust brick and stone building in 1822. In 1811, a belfry was added, with a bell rung to warn enslaved people to leave town before curfew.Over time, The Cage has been repurposed to house a clinic, dispensary, the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce office, a cambio, and even a museum. Today, it houses a foreign currency exchange kiosk. Despite its transformations, The Cage remains a focal point for visitors interested in Montego Bay's heritage. Its presence in Sam Sharpe Square, surrounded by the vibrant culture of Montego Bay, makes it a compelling stop for those seeking to understand the city's historical roots.

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