Cultural sightseeing in Antigua

The Islands of Antigua and Barbuda were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. They immediately struck travelers with their pristine beauty and bright colors of the sea, the softest fine sand and an abundance of greenery around. The colonists waged wars with local Native American tribes over the next several centuries. Peace has been established here only since the middle of the XVII century. Nature is the main wealth of the country until now. It provides a livelihood for its inhabitants. The country's authorities actively develop tourism and create the largest regional resort.

The island of Antigua occupies a central place in public life and the development of tourism. This is where the main hotels, casinos, night clubs and restaurants are located. Barbuda Island is a huge coral reef. Only about 2% of the country's population lives on it. But one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet is located here. This is Long Beach. Traces of the long presence of the English are visible in everything here – from the names to the architecture and administrative structure. The island of Redonda also belongs to the land of the state. It is a volcanic rock. Its entire territory is given over to the territory of a Natural Park. Birds that live in a huge variety here have become the object of observations and studies by ornithologists from all over the world.

English Harbor is located on the southern coast of the island of Antigua. It represents the rich historical heritage of the islanders. "Nelson's Dockyard" is of great interest to tourists. This is the last harbor that has been preserved since the 18th century without reconstruction. The British squadron was based here in those days. The Harbor and surrounding areas are given over to the land of the National Park today. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Clarence House was built in the 18th century. It is a fine example of the Gregorian style. The summer residence of the Governor-General is located here today. The ancient, well-maintained Shirley Heights Fort is noteworthy. It was carefully restored. You should also visit the spacious “Dow Hill” visitor center. Fascinating lectures on the history of the island are regularly given in its premises. The dilapidated Fort Berkeley has long served as the protection of a cozy harbor. It is being restored today. The fort will be interesting both for fans of historical facts and just for fans of beautiful views, walking and exploring the surrounding area.

The horseshoe-shaped bay of Falmouth Harbor has become a place of attraction for visitors to the island in recent years. The town of Falmouth is located in its northern part. The Anglican Church stands on the road to it. It was built in 1676. The church is still active today. The old grace Fort George is located a little further away.

The city of St. Johns is one of the smallest capitals of the state in the world. About half of the country's population (30 thousand people) lives here. Tourist activity is limited to the Redcliffe Quay area and the Heritage Quay complex. Most of the buildings have been restored. But there are also picturesque abandoned mansions. Both of them arouse a keen interest among tourists and a desire to take a photo or buy a souvenir in a nearby shop.

Almost mandatory place to visit is the cathedral. It was built in the neo-Baroque style in 1845 on the site of an older structure. Two towers towering on the sides of the structure have long become a recognizable symbol of the city. The cathedral is valuable as a striking example of rare mixed (wood and stone) architecture. The courthouse was built in 1747. The main museum of the state's history is located there today. Old wine shops located on the streets of Long Street and Market Street deserve special attention from tourists due to the antiquity of the building and a very good assortment. Redcliffe Quay is the best place to explore the city's panorama. It is located in its oldest district. Yacht moorings, the building of the theatre, and shops are located here. There is a farmers' market on the southwest edge of the city. Almost half of the residents gather here for the weekend. Someone offers, and someone buys the product. If you bargain, you can buy the freshest products and see the most incredible fruits here.

The town of Codrington is located on the island of Barbuda. It was the family domain of a noble English family once. The island was leased to the British government for a purely symbolic fee – 1 fat pig per year. Government House is the oldest building on the island. It was built in 1694. The building has successfully survived several centuries. However, a hurricane severely damaged it in 1995. Unhurried, like everything else in the country, work to restore the building is underway today. You can see the ruins of the Codrington family mansion north of the town at the highest point of the island. This is the "Mountain House", built around 1720.

The island of Barbuda consists mostly of limestone. It is famous for its caves. The most visited of them are located on Castle Hill and at Two Foot Bay. Scientists have found drawings dating back to pre-Columbian times in one of the ancient caves. The caves are of great interest to amateurs and professional speleologists.