Update: Barbados’ Bridgetown and Garrison added to World Heritage List!

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In our last post, we revealed that 2 Barbados sites have been nominated for inclusion on the World Heritage List. We then explored the first site, the capital city of Bridgetown.

The second site nominated is the Garrison Historic Area.

The Barbados Garrison was established in 1780 and was the largest in the British colonies. Their role included defending the island from invasions by other European powers and quelling of slave rebellions.

The contribution of the Garrison to the architectural heritage of this area on the south-west coast of Barbados is immense.

Historic buildings in the area include:

• St. Ann’s Fort – now home to the Barbados Defence Force
• the Main Guard – boasting a unique George III Coat of Arms
• the Barbados Museum and Historical Society – originally the Military Prison
• George Washington House – where the American president stayed in 1751
• Pavilion Court – served as the Garrison Hospital.

Also found in the Garrison Historic Area is the world’s largest collection of 17th century English cannon and the Garrison Savannah. The Savannah is home to the Barbados Turf Club and comes alive with horse racing on Saturdays throughout the racing seasons. It is also a popular recreational spot for Bajans who can be found daily at the Savannah walking, jogging, pushing strollers, kite flying, and playing various sports.

The Garrison not only played an important role in the history of the island it continues to enrich our daily lives.

The World Heritage Committee meets from June 19-29 2011 and at that time will decide which nominated sites are included on the World Heritage List. We certainly hope the Barbados Garrison Historic Area is among those chosen.

Read more about the Barbados Garrison…

Update: Barbados’ Bridgetown and Garrison added to World Heritage List!

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