Montego Bay, also known as MoBay, is the second-largest city in Jamaica and the country's most popular tourist destination. Its lively atmosphere offers bustling nightlife, a plethora of water and land activities, golf courses, music, culture, and beautiful beaches. But you might not know the history you can experience while in Montego Bay.
Step back into history by visiting these places in Montego Bay…
The Croydon Plantation
The Croydon Plantation, a 132-acre award-winning working estate, is nestled at the bottom of the Catadupa Mountains, with breathtaking views of the countryside. Here, you will learn about the plantation’s rich history and Jamaican culture, including Samuel Sharpe, one of Jamaica's national heroes, who was born here. He led the 1831 Christmas Rebellion which helped bring about the abolition of slavery. You will also learn about the cultivation of their coffee, the production of their honey, and can sample many exotic fruits that are grown there such as pineapple, sugar cane, and coconut.
Sam Sharpe Square
Experience the historic downtown area of Sam Sharpe Square. This small cobbled stoned square, also called The Parade, is one of Jamaica's most admired sites. Here you’ll find a fountain and a statue of Sam Sharpe. On top of leading the 1831 Rebellion, Sam Sharpe was a black, Jamaican preacher who advocated nonviolent resistance. You will also find The Cage, a building that was once used as a jail for runaway slaves, along with the Civic Center, a small museum with local history in the old Court House building.
Rose Hall Great House
Take a step back in time here to learn about the historic significance of the plantation-slave era. The Rose Hall Great House, built on the 6,600-acre Rose Hall Plantation, is a visually impressive home, set high on the hillside, with panoramic views of the coast. In 1770, John Palmer and his wife built this home, and later on, their grandnephew took over the establishment. His wife was believed to have powers of black magic, and became known as the “White Witch of Rose Hall”. Three of her husbands mysteriously died and she ruled the plantation with an iron fist, where unfortunately slaves fell prey to her torture.
Are you ready to step back in history? Schedule your FREE Travel Consultation today and the ELx Travel team can get you there!