Beyond the Sun, Sea and Sand: Delving Into Antigua & Barbuda’s Historic Depths
When you think about visiting Antigua & Barbuda, sun, sea, and sand probably come to mind, and with good reason as the destination offers a wide range of pristine beaches
and warm weather. But there’s more to the twin-island state and those wanting to learn more about the country’s history can do so by visiting the renowned Nelson’s Dockyard. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, Nelson’s Dockyard forms part of The Antigua Naval Dockyard and Related Archaeological Sites. Nelson’s Dockyard is located in the south of Antigua, and it will take you 40 minutes to get there from the country’s capital, St. John’s.
The trip will be worth it to uncover the naval base which began its history in the early eighteenth century. From 1725- 1740, the British Royal Navy occasionally used the harbour without investing in its upkeep. It was only when the French began building out their infrastructure to attack the British in neighbouring Guadeloupe and Martinique did the British Royal Navy begin to use the Dockyard regularly and construction on the Antigua Naval Dockyard began.
Most of the buildings in the Dockyard were constructed between 1780 and 1820 but with a period of inactivity following, the dockyard closed in 1889 and fell into disrepair. However, through a series of efforts the Dockyard was reopened as a historic site in 1961 with the name, “Nelson’s Dockyard” after its most famous commander, Horatio Nelson. Visitors to Nelson’s Dockyard can now enjoy the fully- restored architecture and take in the history at the Dockyard Museum. Art galleries, gift shops, and restaurants also occupy the property making it the perfect place to visit during your time in Antigua.
