Garrison Historic Area

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, along with the historic Bridgetown district, the former British garrison barracks are one of Barbados' jewels.

Construction of the complex dates back to 1705, shortly after the War of Spanish Succession. Numerous forts had been built to defend the island (including the nearby Fort Charles), but the need was felt to better protect the bridgehead of the colonial empire in the Caribbean. Fort St. Ann, a tribute to Queen Anne of England, was erected. This hexagonal fort was the first piece of defense. The rest of the Garrison was built in the following years, and entered service in 1780. From the ^18th century until 1905, the Garrison was the headquarters of the British West India Regiment in Barbados. The splendid Georgian-style buildings, the red color of the coats worn by British servicemen at the time, and the many cannons on display everywhere, bear witness to Barbados' importance and prestige within the colonial empire.

The enormous site can be divided into several parts:

Fort St. Ann: this is the Garrison's first piece of defense and its oldest building. It cannot be entered, as it is now the headquarters of the Barbadian armed forces. However, its high walls can be admired from afar.

The guardhouse (1802-1803): the most elegant of the complex, it's impossible to miss as it's flanked by a clock tower. The tower's base features an impressive British coat of arms. The nerve center of the Garrison, this is where soldiers reported for duty and received their orders. Every Thursday at 12 noon, veterans perform a sentry relief ceremony, complete with Zouave costumes and music. Queen Victoria, who had appreciated the colorful uniforms of the Algerian regiments during a military parade in Paris, decided that two of her regiments would wear them, including the West Indies.

Garrison Savannah and barracks: arranged around the former parade ground (now a racecourse), the old barracks are all architecturally identical, but in different states of restoration. Up to 4,000 soldiers could be housed here.

George Washington's house and its tunnels.

The Barbados Museum and other historic houses along Garrison Road, such as the Cadet Headquarters or The Pavilion, the former home of the Garrison Surgeon General.