What is there to see in Antigua?
Antigua has long been a favourite holiday destination among people who want to relax in lush surroundings under blue skies and blazing sun. But this West Indies Island has so much more to offer than pristine beaches and top-class resorts - there are a wealth of historically and culturally significant attractions that will reward explorers of the island with spectacular sights and insight into the traditions of this beautiful area of the Caribbean.
One of the most interesting buildings on the island is the Cathedral of St. John's. Originally built as a church in 1681, the building was deemed aesthetically unpleasing, too small and too shabby. In 1720 a brick church was built around it - over a century later it was deemed a cathedral. This building within a building is located on a volcano and happily adorns many holiday postcards.
Then there is the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. The old courthouse in St. John, which dates from 1747, was converted in 1985 to house this hands-on museum. Detailing the island's geological as well as political history the museum regularly holds special events for the general public. The range of exhibits is impressive for a museum of its size with original posters advertising slaves for sale, to the cricket bat of the famous West Indies cricketer Viv Richards.
As you'd expect from an island, there are some wonderful docks to be explored in Antigua, and none moreso than Nelson's Dockyard to the south of the island. At the world's last remaining Georgian dockyard you can explore the natural beauty of the area (it is part of a national park) and explore 10 restored buildings, which will give you a feel of life in the Royal Navy during the 18th and 19th centuries.
As well as these fantastic sights, the island of Barbuda is just a short boat journey away. Not that you'll run out of things to see if you stick to Antigua - after all, we haven't even mentioned the 17th century sugar mill or the clothing optional Hawskbill Beach Resort - although for some that might be seeing a little too much!
One of the most interesting buildings on the island is the Cathedral of St. John's. Originally built as a church in 1681, the building was deemed aesthetically unpleasing, too small and too shabby. In 1720 a brick church was built around it - over a century later it was deemed a cathedral. This building within a building is located on a volcano and happily adorns many holiday postcards.
Then there is the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. The old courthouse in St. John, which dates from 1747, was converted in 1985 to house this hands-on museum. Detailing the island's geological as well as political history the museum regularly holds special events for the general public. The range of exhibits is impressive for a museum of its size with original posters advertising slaves for sale, to the cricket bat of the famous West Indies cricketer Viv Richards.
As you'd expect from an island, there are some wonderful docks to be explored in Antigua, and none moreso than Nelson's Dockyard to the south of the island. At the world's last remaining Georgian dockyard you can explore the natural beauty of the area (it is part of a national park) and explore 10 restored buildings, which will give you a feel of life in the Royal Navy during the 18th and 19th centuries.
As well as these fantastic sights, the island of Barbuda is just a short boat journey away. Not that you'll run out of things to see if you stick to Antigua - after all, we haven't even mentioned the 17th century sugar mill or the clothing optional Hawskbill Beach Resort - although for some that might be seeing a little too much!