The 5 most historic places to visit in Barbados

Barbados is an island known for having fun in the sun, calypso and rum, but it is also known for its large amount of historical monuments.

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There’s so much to choose from, and Barbados’ stylish hotels – all five – can point you in the right direction to five of our favorite historic spots you’ll want to visit during your stay.

George Washington House: George Washington really slept here, for two months anyway. In 1751, then 19, he visited Barbados – the only time he was outside colonial America – and spent about two months there. Step back in time in this two-story structure and see what life was like for one of America’s Founding Fathers. From the four-poster bed and mosquito net to drug bottles, thumb lancets and suction cups, it’s all reminiscent of what Washington went through – which was a life-threatening case of smallpox – before it became the first. President of the United States. from America. Spiked handcuffs and chain and bearded collars also paint a vivid picture of slavery in Barbados at the time.

Needhams Point Lighthouse: If you enjoy studying lighthouses you are a pharologist and Needhams Point Lighthouse, Barbados’ second oldest, should definitely be on your list of places to visit on your trip to the island. This lighthouse guided ships in the harbor, but it did so with a steady light, not a rotating light. In total, there are four lighthouses to see. The other three are located at South Point, Ragged Point and Harrison Point. Keep in mind, however, that you cannot visit the tower.

READ MORE: Take a multigenerational vacation in stylish hotels

Barbados Military Cemetery: Close to the lighthouse is the Barbados Military Cemetery, also known as the Garrison Military Cemetery, which is used for those who served in the Commonwealth Armed Forces and members of the Defense Forces. The swamp that existed before the cemetery was once used as a burial place. The dead would be buried at the entrance in shallow graves or simply left on the swamp. In a few days, the swamp would absorb the deceased. The cemetery is believed to have emerged around 1780, but the first grave dates from 1822. Entrance to the site is free and there is also a memorial building on the property to see.

The Sugar Museum: How sweet! If you want to know the history of sugar production, especially in the 18th and 19th centuries, visit the Sugar Museum. It includes an ancient porridge, a collection of artifacts, equipment, and mural-sized photos of the early days of Barbados sugar. It is a tribute to Sir Frank Hutson, who, with the help of the Barbados National Trust, collected the museum’s artefacts. And the visit to the museum, located in the courtyard of the modern Portvale sugar factory, is accompanied by taste samples.

Holetown: When you are in Holetown, be sure to visit the whole city. Holetown, originally named Jamestown after King James I of England, was changed to Holetown due to the ship cleaning he performed in a small city canal. Every year there is a Holetown Festival, which includes parades, entertainment, and crafts, but if you can’t attend the celebration, Chattel Village offers shopping, crafts, and fashion.