Discover The Infamous Historical Landmarks in The Bahamas
Are you missing a little adventure in your life? And want to enjoy the rest of the summers while exploring the rich cultural landmarks of a breathtaking country? We have just the place for you. Introducing heaven on Earth: Bahamas
The Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands, stretches from just off the southern tip of Florida to the island of Hispaniola, more than 750 miles southeast.Â
The Bahamas were a British colony for nearly two centuries before becoming a fully independent country in 1973. The island nation has a long history and was one of the first destinations in the Americas for European explorers. Several Bahamian sites pay homage to the country’s illustrious past.
The Bahamas’ islands are known for their beauty and serenity, but there’s a lot more to The Bahamas than meets the eye. In fact, this group of exotic islands is home to a plethora of fascinating cultural sites that are just waiting to be discovered. You’ll find plenty to see and do in Nassau, Freeport, and Grand Exuma, regardless of where you’re going.
Natural beauty abounds throughout the Bahamas’ 700-island archipelago. Historic forts, lighthouses, and monuments dot the stunning landscapes and ecosystems. Explore the historical and cultural landmarks that make our country a celebration of the past and present. Simply browse through this list for some ideas.
Latest News & Events
Explore The Rich History of The Bahamas!
Table of Contents
The islands were inhabited by Lucayans, descendants of the Arawak Indians, for at least 500 years before Europeans arrived in the Bahamas. They originated in the Caribbean Islands and Florida, in the northwestern part of South America.
The Lucayans lived a simple life in Bahamas villages for centuries. Christopher Columbus arrived on October 12th, 1492, on a small island called Guanahani by the Lucayans, which he named San Salvador. The Bahamas were under Spanish rule until 1612 when they were colonized by Great Britain.
For the first time in the Bahamas, a census was taken in 1671. There were 1097 people living there, 443 of whom were slaves brought from Africa to work on British cotton, tobacco, and sugar cane plantations. The majority of British settlers fled the island, which became vulnerable to pirate attacks.
Many pirates established themselves on the island and stayed for years. Captain Woodes Rogers was appointed governor of the Bahamas in 1718. He began the difficult task of expelling over a thousand pirates who had taken up residence in New Providence. The number of slaves had risen to over 12,000 by the beginning of 1800.
With the passage of time, the Bahamas’ social system began to shift, with the abolition of slave trading in 1807 and slave emancipation in 1834. The concept of education was introduced. The Bahamas were granted their own government by the British government in 1963. In the 1964 general elections, a constitution was presented to elect a Prime Minister.
In 1898, the Hotel and Steam Ship Service Act opened our doors to the rest of the world. This act provided the necessary government assistance for the construction of hotels and the provision of subsidized services. Everything from Prohibition bringing well-to-do Americans to Cuba’s closure to Americans has had an impact on tourism in our country since then.
The Bahamas became a free and sovereign country on July 10, 1973, ending 325 years of peaceful British rule. The Bahamas, on the other hand, is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, and we celebrate Bahamian Independence Day on July 10th.
Get to Know The Cultural Significance of The Historical Landmarks!
The Cloisters, Nassau
Only in Nassau can you find this one-of-a-kind Bahamas attraction: a breathtaking arrangement of old European ruins surrounded by delicately arranged tropical gardens. Come to Cloisters to see some one-of-a-kind photographs and learn about a fascinating story.
Cloisters aren’t native to the island; these ruins date from the 14th century and are the remains of a French monastery. Newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearts imported four sets of columns and arches (of Hearst Castle fame). This one was deconstructed, transported to the Bahamas, and reconstructed in the 1960s by Huntington Hartford (businessman, philanthropist, and heir to the A&P fortune). It was built on a bluff with a view of the sea.
Today’s contradiction is magnificent. The columns, which were imported from a world thousands of miles away and hundreds of years ago, stand out against the colonial-style building and tropical flora around them. However, seeing these ruins with the sea breeze in your nostrils will convince you that it’s not impossible—it’s very real.
These aren’t the only attractions in Nassau, Bahamas; the resort where they’re located also has the Nassau Versailles Gardens, which are named after the famous gardens of that French palace. These are a must-see stop while in Nassau, with magnificent ancient architecture and lovely flora; they’re also popular for Bahamian destination weddings.
Pig Beach, Great Exuma
This is arguably one of the most well-known tourist attractions in The Bahamas, so you’ve probably heard of it. And it’s because of the famous people who live here. Pig Beach is a beach on Big Major Cay (also known as Major Cay), an uninhabited island (or cay) off the coast of Exuma, Bahamas.
The island’s unofficial name comes from the fact that it is home to a colony of feral pigs. In modern times, it has become a tourist attraction. Although other islands in the Bahamas have swimming pigs, the pigs are known as “the swimming pigs” in popular culture.
There does not appear to be a single, accurate account of how the pigs ended up on the cay. Various theories and folklore claim a variety of scenarios, including pirates. The pigs were allegedly dropped off on Big Major Cay by a group of sailors who intended to return and cook them. The sailors, on the other hand, never returned, leaving the pigs to survive on food dumped by passing ships.
According to another legend, the pigs were survivors of a shipwreck who managed to swim to shore, while others claim they escaped from a nearby islet. Others claim the pigs were stocked on the island in the 1990s by residents of nearby Staniel Cay to raise for food, while others claim they were part of a business scheme to attract tourists to the Bahamas.
Pig Beach is home to a family of swimming pigs who has become increasingly popular in recent years, to the point where tourists now travel to this uninhabited island off the coast of Great Exuma just to meet the porcine celebrities in person.
Tourists are welcome to go swimming with the pigs, and there are numerous guided tours that stop here. Just remember to treat the animals with respect and care while you’re there.
Dunmore Town, Harbor Island
Destinations like Dunmore Town Bahamas on Harbor Island truly distinguish the Bahamas from the rest of the world’s vacation hotspots. Despite the fact that Nassau and Paradise Island attract far more visitors each year, the undeniable charm of places like Dunmore Town is what draws people to the Bahamas.
Harbor Island is located in the upper northeast of the Bahamas’ Out Islands, among some of the world’s most beautiful waters. Though most visitors to Harbor Island Bahamas today do so to tour the island, it has a long and illustrious history.
A Haunted House can be found in Dunmore Town, Bahamas. Despite the fact that no one believes it is haunted, it is well worth a visit. Locals may even tell you stories about what goes on in this area. For the most part, it’s just another photo opportunity.
This structure also serves as an excellent example of what all of Dunmore Town Bahamas’ buildings would look like if they were not properly maintained. Combine this quick visit with a visit to the Loyalist Cottage. Despite the fact that it is privately owned and tours are not available, this immaculate example of English Colonial architecture is truly a sight to behold.
Almost every destination in the Bahamas, of course, has excellent dining options. The Bahamas’ Dunmore Town is no exception. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to dining establishments. The absolutely perfect way to end a wonderful day in Dunmore Town Harbor Island is to enjoy a delicious dish while watching the moon rise over the Bahamian ocean.
Make a point of stopping in this charming town if you’re on your way to Harbor Island. The only town on Harbor Island is Dunmore Town, which is located just east of North Eleuthera. Day trips to this small settlement, one of the most scenic and impressive Bahamas attractions, are available.Â
Visit the Princess Street Gallery, go shopping in the charming boutiques, or simply stroll through the streets of this charming, authentic Bahamian town.
Blackbeard’s Tower, Nassau
Nassau, the Bahamas’ largest island, has a rich and varied history that never ceases to enthrall visitors. And if there’s one aspect of Bahamian history that everyone seems to be interested in, it’s pirates.Â
The Blackbeard’s Tower is a relic from the island’s past. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in The Bahamas, this historic tower is a must-see.
Sapona, Bimini
Scuba divers flock to the Bahamas to explore the many underwater shipwrecks, but did you know you can also see one without getting in the water? The SS Sapona was once a massive cargo steamer that was converted into a floating casino.Â
The ship ran aground in a storm in 1926, and it has remained there ever since. The ship can be seen from the surface, and divers can also explore what lies beneath the waves. It’s a terrifying sight and one of the most terrifying of these Bahamas landmarks.
Columbus Point, Long Island
The Bahamas are known for their beautiful views, but if you want to see the best of what the islands have to offer, you must visit Columbus Point.Â
This monument stands tall on Long Island’s coast, providing visitors with a spectacular vantage point from which to take in the island’s crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but once you’re there, we’re confident you’ll agree it was well worth the effort.
KEY TAKEAWAYS ...🛪
If you’re planning a last-minute vacation to the Bahamas, be sure to visit some of our top cultural attractions.Â
You’ll find plenty to see and do, whether you’re interested in military history, love animals, or are looking for undiscovered shipwrecks. The only difficult part is deciding which activity must be completed first.
Find out more about Kanana Caribbean island facts, vacation planning, sightseeing, travel deals, and possible upcoming events
