Barbados Museum

Barbados Museum

This unique museum was formerly a British military detention barracks used to house prisoners. It consists of two sections, with the upper part built in 1817 and the lower part in 1853. In 1930, it was renamed the Barbados Museum. The Barbados Museum records the island’s evolution from the 16th century to the present day, and features excellent natural history exhibits, historical maps, artworks, as well as a shop and courtyard café to depict the historical changes of Barbados.

Several of the museum’s exhibition rooms are located within restored prison cells. In addition, the museum courtyard hosts a live theatrical performance titled "1627 and all that." The Barbados Museum reflects the island’s history, heritage, and the attire of 18th-century plantation workers. The artworks feature vivid and lifelike characters. This museum holds significant historical and cultural value and is one of the few museums housed in a former military prison. The exhibition spaces were once prison cells, which is quite rare.