Overview:

: St. Paul's Parish Church is one of the oldest and best-preserved churches in Antigua and Barbuda. It is located in the town of St. John’s near Fort James. The church was built in 1745, and it is an excellent example of colonial Caribbean architecture. The lines of the church are classical and symmetrical, with a hipped roof of corrugated metal and a mahogany clapboard and shingle facade. Inside, the church features a high ceiling and an open belfry. The wooden pews, which can accommodate up to 300 people, are still in use today. The original bell, made in England, was installed in 1868. The church is still used for regular services and is an important part of the local community, with many worshippers coming from the nearby areas. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Antigua-and-Barbuda
Prominent Features:

1. Neo-classical architecture: The St. Paul’s Parish Church was built in the early 19th century and features a traditional neo-classical style of architecture characterized by symmetrical forms, white columns, and a pediment on the front. 2. Landmark: The St. Paul’s Parish Church is a landmark for the island of Antigua-and-Barbuda, as it stands prominently in St. John’s harbour. 3. Historical importance: The St. Paul’s Parish Church is also significant as a historical symbol as it dates back to before the abolition of slavery in the island and serves as a reminder of the past. 4. Unique interior: Inside the church, visitors will be entranced by the beautiful domed ceiling, which is inscribed with the words “Salvation, Sanctity, Service”. 5. Famous figures: The St. Paul’s Parish Church has seen some famous figures grace its pulpit, including author and historian V. S. Naipaul and the first Prime Minister of Antigua-and-Barbuda, Vere Bird. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Antigua-and-Barbuda.

History:

St. Paul’s Parish Church is one of the oldest churches on Antigua-and-Barbuda, built in 1730. Located in the island of Antigua, the church is the spiritual center of the colonial capital of St. John’s, and is the oldest surviving church on the island. St. Paul’s was originally designed and built in 1730 as a traditional rectangular colonial wooden church, but it was damaged by a hurricane in 1847. A new stone structure was then erected in its place with a tower, new roof, and windows. The church was further renovated in 1859, when the choir was added and the walls were strengthened. The current building dates to 1922 when it underwent a major reconstruction, led by Sir Andrew Ramsay and architect Edwin Lewis. The structure was restored to its original plans but with a more notable form of Byzantine revival architecture, known to locals as “St. Paul’s style”. Throughout St. Paul’s history, there have been various nicknames given to it, such as “the Cathedral”, the “Henna Tree” and the “Coke Bottle Church”. The latter reflects the distinct look of the building, which features a prominent roof line resembling an upside-down Coke bottle. St. Paul’s is also renowned for its Graecian-style columns and for hosting some of the best chorus singing in the Caribbean. Today, St. Paul’s continues to be a major landmark and is the most important church on the island. Thousands of people visit the church each year, both locals and tourists. The church celebrates Christmas Mass, Easter and other holy days as well as hosting various events and special occasions such as baptisms, confirmations, weddings, funerals and naming ceremonies. The church is currently directed by The Reverend Canon Michael Ince, who serves as the priest in charge of the parish. Visit one of the famous monuments of Antigua-and-Barbuda with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. St. Paul's Parish Church is the oldest parish church in Antigua-and-Barbuda and is the most significant Anglican church on the island. 2. Construction on St. Paul's Parish Church began in 1703 and was completed in 1750. 3. St. Paul's is sometimes referred to as "The Church of the Sea" due to its proximity to the sea. 4. The church is noted for its steeple, which is a prominent landmark not only for Christians, but throughout Antigua and Barbuda. 5. The church features three large stained glass windows, two coming from two of England’s most renowned glassmaking companies, Heaton Butler and Bayne, and the third from Clayton and Bell. 6. St. Paul's Parish Church was appointed as an active parish in 1708, making it the oldest Anglican Church in Antigua and Barbuda. 7. St. Paul's Parish Church is the only Anglican Church on the island to still hold services every Sunday. One of the historical monuments of Antigua-and-Barbuda, it tells the story of a bygone era