Barbados is located in the eastern Caribbean, northeast of Venezuela and north of Trinidad and Tobago. It is part of the Lesser Antilles and is located outside the principal Atlantic hurricane belt, making it a popular destination year-round.
Geography
Climate
Barbados enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The island experiences two main seasons: the dry season from December to May and the wet season from June to November. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with the coolest months being January and February.
Fauna
Barbados is home to a variety of fauna, including green monkeys, hawksbill turtles, and numerous bird species such as the red-legged thrush and the bananaquit. The island’s coral reefs support diverse marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral formations.
Longest Rivers
Barbados does not have any significant rivers due to its small size and limestone-based geology. However, the island is crisscrossed by several streams and gullies that provide freshwater during the rainy season.
Highest Mountains
Mount Hillaby is the highest point in Barbados, reaching an elevation of 336 meters (1,102 feet) above sea level. While not towering by global standards, Mount Hillaby offers panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain and coastline.
History
Prehistory
Barbados has a rich prehistoric heritage, with evidence of human settlement dating back over 4,000 years. The island was originally inhabited by the Amerindian peoples, including the Arawaks and Caribs, who lived off the land and sea.
Colonial Era
The arrival of European explorers in the 16th century marked the beginning of colonial rule in Barbados. The island was first claimed by the Spanish, but it was the English who established permanent settlements in the early 17th century. Barbados became a major center of the transatlantic slave trade, with enslaved Africans brought to work on sugar plantations.
Independence and Modern Age
Barbados gained independence from Britain in 1966 and became a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth. Since independence, Barbados has developed into a stable democracy with a parliamentary system of government. The country has diversified its economy beyond sugar production to include tourism, finance, and international business.
Demographics
Barbados has a population of approximately 287,000 people, with the majority residing in urban areas along the coast. The population is predominantly of African descent, with smaller communities of European, Asian, and mixed-race descent. English is the official language, and Christianity is the predominant religion, with Protestantism being the largest denomination.
Administrative Divisions
Barbados is divided into 11 administrative parishes, each with its own local government authority:
Administrative Divisions and Population (2022 estimate)
- Saint Michael – Population: 100,000
- Christ Church – Population: 65,000
- Saint James – Population: 40,000
- Saint Peter – Population: 31,000
- Saint Lucy – Population: 26,000
- Saint Thomas – Population: 15,000
- Saint Andrew – Population: 11,000
- Saint Joseph – Population: 10,000
- Saint John – Population: 9,000
- Saint George – Population: 7,000
- Saint Philip – Population: 30,000
10 Largest Cities by Population
- Bridgetown
- Holetown
- Oistins
- Speightstown
- Bathsheba
- Hastings
- Crane
- Dover
- Mullins
- Worthing
Education Systems
Education in Barbados is free and compulsory for children aged 5 to 16, with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy. The government operates a system of public schools, supplemented by private and parochial schools. Barbados is also home to several top universities, including the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus and the Barbados Community College.
Transportation
Airports
Barbados has one major international airport, Grantley Adams International Airport, located in Christ Church Parish. The airport serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights, connecting Barbados to destinations around the world.
Highways
Barbados has a well-developed road network, with highways and main roads connecting major towns and attractions. The island’s road system is relatively compact, making it easy to navigate by car or public transportation.
Ports
The Port of Bridgetown is the main seaport in Barbados, handling the majority of the island’s maritime trade and cruise ship arrivals. The port is located in the capital city of Bridgetown and plays a vital role in the country’s economy.
Country Facts
- Population: 287,000
- Capital: Bridgetown
- Language: English
- Religion: Christianity (predominantly Protestant)
- Race: African descent, European, Asian, mixed-race
- Currency: Barbadian dollar (BBD)
- ISO Country Code: BB
- International Calling Code: +1-246
- Top-level Domain: .bb