St. Mary’s Church, Bridgetown : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 25 Jun, 2023
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St. Mary’s Church in Bridgetown is one of the oldest religious sites in the Barbados capital. Founded in 1627, it is the oldest Roman Catholic Church on the island, and one of the oldest in the Caribbean. For over four centuries, the church has played an important role in the history and culture of the city, from being a site of colonial worship and a place of refuge during times of slavery, to a popular tourist attraction. In this blog, we will explore the history and interesting facts about St. Mary’s Church, and also provide travel information for visitors interested in exploring this fascinating site. So, if you’re ready to learn more about this amazing Barbadian landmark, then let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About St. Mary’s Church, Bridgetown
1. The current church building was built in 1796 and was constructed on the site of a much older church from 1681.
2. The original building was a timber structure and even had a steeple which was much taller than the one today.
3. The spectacular ceiling in the interior of the church was made up of intricate stonework which was laid by the famous stone carvers of County Wexford.
4. St. Mary’s Church is home to the country’s premier organ.
5. The church’s unique corner tower was created during a reconstruction in the 1830s.
6. The last significant structural renovation of the church’s interior was carried out in 1901.
7. The church still features some wonderfully crafted stained glass windows from the 19th century.
8. In 2008, St. Mary’s Church was awarded the prestigious title of the National Monument of Ireland.
History & Information About St. Mary’s Church, Bridgetown
St. Mary’s Church, located in the town of Bridgetown in Barbados, is a parish of the Anglican Church of the Province of the West Indies. It was established by a small group of English settlers in 1628, as one of the first Christian churches on the island. It is the oldest Anglican church in the Caribbean, and is considered to be one of the most important churches in the West Indies.
St. Mary’s Church has a long history of being an active part of the local community. It has hosted many weddings, including the wedding of the current Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, and her husband Michael Morson in 2001. The church has also been a part of many social and historical events, including hosting the funeral of Sir Garfield Sobers in 1998 and even the swearing-in ceremony of a new Prime Minister in 2008.
The architecture of the church dates back to its founding, with an 18th century facade and many of its beautiful stained-glass windows. Inside, the church has a very traditional and ornate look, with beautiful statues, wooden carvings and a large bell tower. It is open to visitors on Sundays during services.
St. Mary’s Church is also a symbol of the strong faith of the people of Barbados, and is important to the island’s history. It has served as a place of worship for generations, and is a strong reminder of the island’s religious history and culture.
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Travel Guide For Visiting St. Mary’s Church, Bridgetown
, Barbados
If you’re visiting Bridgetown, make sure you don’t miss the St. Mary’s Church. This beautiful baroque-style church was constructed in 1789 and is one of the oldest religious sites in the Caribbean. It is situated near the historic district of Bridgetown and greets its visitors with an elegant bell tower and stained-glass windows.
Getting There:
The St. Mary’s Church is located at the intersection of Cheapside and Swan Street in Bridgetown. It is easily accessible by public transport, including taxis, minibusses, and buses.
Opening Hours:
The church is open every day from 9am to 5pm.
Admission:
Admission to this church is free of charge.
What to Expect:
The best thing about visiting St. Mary’s Church is its exquisite interior architecture. Inside the church, you’ll encounter beautiful works of art, a majestic altar, and a host of old religious artifacts and relics. Additionally, the church offers a variety of services, including weekly services and weddings.
Photography:
The church is free to take pictures inside and outdoors. However, you should always be respectful of any religious ceremonies taking place inside the church and avoid taking pictures without permission.
Accessibility:
The church is accessible to visitors with disabilities. You’ll find elevators in the entrance area and wheelchair accessible bathrooms. Additionally, there is parking close to the entrance for visitors with limited mobility.
Miscellaneous:
St. Mary’s Church is a great spot to enjoy a peaceful visit and appreciate the beauty of Bridgetown. Visitors should be aware that food and drinks are not allowed inside the church, and should also respect the religious symbols and artifacts.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Mary’s Church, Bridgetown
Q: Who is St. Mary’s Church?
A: St. Mary’s Church is a Catholic church located in Bridgetown, Barbados.
Q: When was St. Mary’s Church established?
A: St. Mary’s Church was founded in 1641.
Q: What services does St. Mary’s Church provide?
A: St. Mary’s Church offers Mass, Baptism, Confession, Reconciliation, Marriage, and other religious services to the community.
Q: What is the address of St. Mary’s Church?
A: St. Mary’s Church is located at 9 Donegal Street, Bridgetown, Barbados.