I was curious about why the restoration of St. Nicholas Abbey would merit a fairly lengthy article in the Toronto Star. Then I saw the note at the bottom of the article: the author’s visit to Barbados was subsidised by the Barbados Tourism Authority. Hmm.
Anyway, St. Nicholas Abbey was built in 1660 and is reputed to be one of the very few remaining examples of Jacobean architecture in the Western Hemisphere. (Drax Hall Great House, in the parish of St. George, is another.) It was recently restored, and the owners are hoping to have it designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s more coverage of the restoration and re-opening of the Abbey at the Nation website.
I’m thinking that sometime soon I’ll take a trip up to St. Nicholas Abbey (preferably on a day when they’re grinding sugar cane, so that I can get some fresh cane juice). The journey to the Abbey is an enjoyable drive. I especially like to pass through Cherry Tree Hill, which I think is the loveliest road on the island, with a beautiful view of the East Coast from the hill crest.
Nice article…
There are so many places in Barbados that needs restoration. The National Trust, The Government, and the private sector need to get on the ball.
Do you attend The National Trust walks on Saturdays or Sundays? It is a nice walk.
barbadosinfocus · March 16, 2007
Re the National Trust walks: I keep meaning to, but I’ve not gotten around to it yet. I went on a hike a while back with one of the guys who leads the Trust Walks sometimes, and it was strenuous, but very satisfying.
titilayo · March 16, 2007
Well, there are different levels. You can try the Stop-And-Stare group. This section is not that strenuous.
barbadosinfocus · March 17, 2007
Oh, I didn’t mind it being strenuous—that’s one of the things that made it satisfying! In fact, after that I said that I’d try to go on a National Trust walk every month, but so far I haven’t made it out to one… But I will, I will.
titilayo · March 17, 2007