Overview:

Independence Square is a public square located in the city of Bridgetown, Barbados. It was laid out in 1842 and is the site of the Parliament Buildings and other important government buildings. It is the center of the country's independence and political history, marked by the erection of a monument that proudly proclaims Barbados independence from Britain. The square is lined on all sides by palm trees, providing a shady canopy to those who come to admire its beauty. The statue of Lord Nelson is its grand centerpiece, surrounded by lush garden beds and surrounded by the statues of past Prime Ministers. It is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike and its surrounding buildings and monuments tell the story of the country's rich history. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Barbados
Prominent Features:

1. Parliament Buildings- Located in the heart of Bridgetown, this is the seat of government in Barbados. The Parliament Buildings are a popular tourist attraction and feature a statue of Errol Barrow, the first Prime Minister of Barbados. 2. Garrison Savannah- This is the historic parade ground and racecourse located next to the Parliament Buildings. It’s the home of the Garrison Savannah Horse Race, which has been running since 1845, making it one of the oldest horse races in the Caribbean. 3. The Careenage- This is the inner harbor of Bridgetown where ships of all sizes can dock. It’s a hub of activity and a great place to explore the city. 4. Statue of Lord Nelson- Located at the entrance of the Careenage, this statue was erected in 1813 to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson. 5. Barbados National Flag- This flag dominates Independence Square and is a symbol of Barbados’s freedom and independence. 6. Walking Tour- Visitors can take a guided walking tour of Independence Square to learn about its history and cultural importance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Barbados.

History:

Independence Square, located in the heart of Bridgetown, is the largest and historically significant public square in Barbados. It is surrounded by statues, buildings and monuments that honour Barbados’ independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. The surrounding architecture at Independence Square is from British Colonial era. The Trafalgar Square-style architecture includes the statue of William IV, built in 1845. Two fountains and a series of gardens provide a green area in the middle of the urban landscape. The square was initially established in the 18th century, with the Barbados House, the Parliament House, the Nassau House and other historic buildings. The square initially had a horseshoe shape, with the horseshoes lanes being known as Trafalgar Road and Constitution Road. In 1863, a large pavement was laid around the square and it was renamed Trafalgar Square. However, during World War II it was changed to its present name to commemorate the country’s independence. The square has been the site of many historic events, including when a statue of Lord Nelson was unveiled in a ceremony in 1950, the celebration of the 50th independence anniversary in 2016, and the ceremony to swear in Barbados’ first Prime Minister Ermine Jones. The statue of Lord Nelson was removed and destroyed and the square has since been refurbished and restored. Today, Independence Square is a popular tourist destination and a popular place for locals to hang out. The square hosts several music concerts and other events throughout the year. It is also used as a venue for political rallies, religious events, and to celebrate occasions such as Barbados' Independence Day and other national holidays. Despite its age, Independence Square is still an important public gathering place on Barbados’ landscape and a symbol for Barbados’ independence. The square is filled with statues and monuments that honour the history, culture and heritage of Barbados. Visit one of the famous monuments of Barbados with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Independence Square in Bridgetown, Barbados, is the site of the first ever speech of Independence in the British Monarchies. On November 30th, 1966, The Right Excellent Errol Walton Barrow, the first Prime Minister of Barbados, declared the island’s nationhood from this Square. 2. The Square is also home to the world-famous statue of Bussa, the leader of an 18th-century slave rebellion. The figure of Bussa is seen as a symbol of freedom, and of the power of the people to stand up to injustice. 3. The Square is also surrounded by several important buildings, including the Barbados Supreme Court, the Parliament Buildings, and the Central Bank of Barbados. 4. The Square features a unique fountain, which was sculpted by local artisan Millard Drakes and unveiled in 1992 to commemorate 30 years of independence in Barbados. The fountain features 24 jets of water, which represent the 24 parishes of Barbados. 5. The Square also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, primarily during the summer months. The Barbados Light & Power Music Festival and the annually recurring Crop Over celebration both take place in Independence Square. One of the historical monuments of Barbados, it tells the story of a bygone era