Bridgetown

Pg013 Title The history of Barbados by Sir Robert H. Schombourgk

Pg012 Bridgetown in Barbados (cropped)

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Bridgetown is the capital city and largest city of Barbados, an island country in the Caribbean region of North America. It is situated in the parish of Saint Michael. Bridgetown is a major West Indian tourist destination, and is also an important financial, informatics, convention center, and cruise ship port of call in the Caribbean. The city was established by the English in 1628, and its deep harbor at Carlisle Bay played a significant role in the development of Bridgetown as a major port for sugar and rum exportation.

History

The area around Bridgetown was first inhabited by the Indigenous peoples before the arrival of the British in the 17th century. The city was established on July 5, 1628, by Charles Wolverstone, who was sent by Sir William Courten, a wealthy English merchant. Bridgetown replaced Holetown (formerly known as Jamestown) as the capital of Barbados. Over the centuries, Bridgetown has been a significant location in the Atlantic slave trade, serving as a major slave market in the Caribbean.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Bridgetown was the busiest port in the Caribbean, facilitating the trade of sugar, rum, and other goods. The city's layout, with its serpentine streets, dates back to this period and reflects a mix of British and African influences. The Garrison Historic Area, which includes the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and highlights the city's rich history.

Geography

Bridgetown is located on the southwestern coast of Barbados, along the natural harbor of Carlisle Bay. The city's geography is characterized by its coastal location, which has significantly influenced its development and economy. The climate in Bridgetown, like the rest of Barbados, is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.

Economy

The economy of Bridgetown, and Barbados as a whole, has traditionally been based on the production and export of sugar, rum, and molasses. However, in recent decades, the economy has diversified into manufacturing, tourism, and financial services. Bridgetown is home to the Central Bank of Barbados and the Barbados Stock Exchange, which are critical to the financial sector of the Caribbean region. The city's deepwater harbor facilitates international trade, particularly in the export of the island's products and import of goods.

Culture

Bridgetown reflects a blend of African, British, and Caribbean cultures. This multicultural influence is evident in the city's architecture, cuisine, music, and festivals. The Crop Over festival, which marks the end of the sugar cane harvest, is one of the city's most significant cultural events, featuring music, dance, and a carnival atmosphere. Bridgetown's cultural scene is also enriched by its museums, galleries, and theaters.

Transportation

Transportation in Bridgetown includes a network of roads, a public bus system, and a deepwater port that accommodates both cargo ships and cruise liners. The Grantley Adams International Airport, located approximately 13 kilometers from the city center, provides international connectivity.

Education

Bridgetown is a center for education in Barbados, hosting several primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. The University of the West Indies Cave Hill campus is located near the city, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

See Also

• History of Barbados
• Economy of Barbados
• Culture of Barbados
• Geography of Barbados