Great Houses And Homes From Colonial Era Jamaica

Great Houses and Homes from Colonial Era Jamaica

Jamaica is among the world's foremost tourist attractions. But its attractions are not only great, they are also very varied. Some people come here for its beaches, others come for exploring the caves, others come for the delicious food. But the island is also a historic treasure, where you can find traces of its original inhabitants and remnants from the times when it was under Spanish and British occupation. The superb houses and mansions built by Europeans are today a great draw for tourists, and many of them have been renovated and open to visitors.

The Rose Hall Great House is by far the most famous among the constructions of the colonial era. Situated on Rose Hall Highway, not far outside Montego Bay, it was built by John Palmer from Britain in the second half of the 18th century. It was once part of a very large plantation, with 2,000 slaves. There have been books and stories written about or around it, amplifying the superstitions and creepy tales associated with it for centuries.

Perhaps the best known of those mysterious tales were woven around the wife of John Palmer's nephew. Reportedly guilty of many gruesome murders, sexual depravation, and sordid cruelty to the slaves, this woman was also believed to be a witch, and her ghost is said to still haunt the place. You can see for yourself during a visit - the admission fee is $15 for visitors over 12 years of age and $10 for younger visitors. Tours are available daily, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The Greenwood Great House, situated on Route 1A just outside Montego Bay, is another famous attraction. Home of Richard Barrett, who was the cousin of the well known poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, this 14-room mansion has been less damaged by the passing years and has consequently undergone fewer restorative operations, so much of what you'll see was part of the original Gregorian architecture. You'll marvel at the furnishings, oil paintings and household items, including an impressive collection of musical instruments. The family library, with books dating back as far as the seventeenth century, is also part of the tour. You can visit the house daily between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., for a fee of $12 ($6 for children under twelve).

These are, of course, not the only options you have. Though others may be less renowned, their beauty makes visiting them a worthwhile experience. The Sevill Great House and Heritage Park in Saint Ann, where you'll come across many artifacts and remnants from old times, is one such attraction, as are the Brimmer Hall Estate in Ocho Rios and the Appleton Estate.

Witnesses to the unfortunate times of slavery, the beauty of these houses will both delight you and invite you to ponder upon the facts of history. A visit to them is definitely a good addition to your Jamaican experience.

Great Houses and Homes from Colonial Era Jamaica

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Great Houses And Homes From Colonial Era Jamaica