Overview:

- The Garrison Tunnels, Saint Michael in Barbados were built in the late eighteenth century by the British colonial government to provide shelter and defensive positions for troops stationed at the citadel of the Garrison Historic Area. The tunnels are now open to the public for guided tours. Running from the heights of the Garrison cliffs, the tunnels provide an insight into the defensive and offensive strategies employed by the British during their various occupations of Barbados. The Garrison Tunnels are well preserved and contain a series of pathways, galleries, chambers and underground passages. There is also a network of ramps and stairways leading to the different levels of the tunnels, as well as an expansive underground courtyard. Visitors can explore the various rooms and passageways, learn about the fortifications and strategic uses of the tunnels, and see the different weapons and defensive systems employed by the British troops stationed at the Garrison. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Barbados
Prominent Features:

The Garrison Tunnels in Saint Michael, Barbados are an impressive underground network of structures built by British military forces in the 18th and 19th centuries. The tunnels were initially used for storage, as well as providing passage between the many fortifications that were built around Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados. The Garrison Tunnels are an important part of the island's military history, and today, they provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore underground. The tunnels feature 12 large chambers, and are over 80 feet long. Built in a series of colonnades, the tunnels are constructed of stone and brick, and are illuminated with fluorescent lights. Visitors can walk through the tunnels and follow the progression of military history on the walls, which include cannons, muskets, and other items used in British colonial warfare. The tunnels also provide a glimpse of life under British rule, with original accoutrements from the 18th and 19th centuries, including furniture, tools, and uniforms. In addition to offering a unique historical experience, the Garrison Tunnels have become a popular tourist destination in Barbados. Visitors can also explore the tunnels by boat or kayak, and experience the natural beauty of the underground chambers. The tunnels are open daily, and visitors should check the exact hours and fees before their visit. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Barbados.

History:

The Garrison Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels located in St. Michael parish, Barbados. They were constructed by the British in the early 1800s as a protective defence against the then frequent slave rebellions in the area. The Garrison Tunnels are located on and beneath the St. Michael Garrison historic site, which was home to a British military garrison from 1789 until it closed in 1905. The tunnels were originally used to store ammunition and provide a safe environment for soldiers to move around in during times of attack or unrest. The tunnels were also used to house important prisoners, particularly when the 1816 Slave Revolt was quelled. In more recent times, the tunnels have gained notoriety as a tourist attraction, with tours being conducted regularly. The tours provide an opportunity to learn about the history of the Garrison and Barbados' struggle for freedom, as well as explore the fascinating underground tunnels. The St. Michael Garrison is a now a Victoria-era military fortress and a national monument that tells the story of Barbados' rich cultural and political history. It is a great place to visit and explore the fascinating Garrison Tunnels and the history of the island. Visit one of the famous monuments of Barbados with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Garrison Tunnels were built by the British military in the City of Saint Michael, Barbados in the late 18th century. 2. The tunnels are approximately two and a half miles in length and span across the historical town. 3. The tunnels were used as a refuge from the hot Caribbean sun for British officers, soldiers, and laborers. 4. The tunnels were also used during the period as an underground escape route and a storage space for weapon stores. 5. During the Second World War, the tunnels were also used for the purpose of communication and data transfer between different islands. 6. Barbados' Former Prime Minister, Owen Arthur, helped to restore and preserve the Garrison Tunnels. 7. In 2014, the tunnels were opened to the public for educational tours and as a tourist attraction. 8. The Garrison Tunnels have a large collection of military artifacts including uniforms, maps, manuscripts, and documents. 9. It is believed that many tunnels still remain undiscovered and the actual length of the tunnels is unknown. 10. The tunnels are still considered an important part of Barbados’s history and culture. One of the historical monuments of Barbados, it tells the story of a bygone era