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Gregory's Arch
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Landmark
Gregory's Arch is a prominent stone structure in Nassau, completed in 1852. Named after Governor John Gregory, who presided over the Bahamas from 1849 to 1854, the arch was originally designed to bridge a physical and social gap within the city. It serves as the symbolic threshold between the bustling commercial center of Nassau and the historic "Over-the-Hill" residential districts, such as Grant's Town and Bain Town, which were established by liberated slaves after the abolition of slavery. The arch is constructed from solid stone and carries Market Street over a deep roadway cut that remains a vital traffic vein today. Located near the country's main government and court buildings, the arch stands as a testament to 19th-century urban engineering and the historical social stratification of Bahamian society.
- Location: Bahamas
- Top sights: St. Andrews Presbyterian Kirk · Nassau Public Library · Government House, Nassau
- Nearby: Sandy Point (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 38 | 33 | 40 | 61 | 127 | 162 | 130 | 154 | 164 | 119 | 68 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Gregory's Arch is located on public street space and can be viewed from outside at any time. The structure is a freestanding stone arch that is free to access.
Typical hours
As a public monument, there are no opening hours. The area is accessible around the clock.
Photography
Photography is allowed anytime from all sides; the arch looks especially good in morning or evening light. Watch out for traffic as it sits alongside a road.
Time needed
Viewing the arch itself takes just a few minutes. Allow about 15-30 minutes to explore the surroundings and take photos.
Combine with
The arch marks the transition from downtown to the 'Over-the-Hill' settlement. A walk through the historic neighborhood with its pastel-colored houses is recommended.
Getting there
Gregory's Arch is located in Nassau, Bahamas, easily walkable from the port or city center. Taxis and buses stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the arch in late afternoon when light highlights the stone structure nicely. Combine with a stroll through local shops on Bay Street.
Geography
Facts
- Gregory's Arch was completed in 1852 during the British colonial period.
- It was named for Governor John Gregory, who served from 1849 to 1854.
- The arch separates downtown Nassau from the historic Grant's Town area.
- It carries traffic on Market Street over the excavated roadway below.
- The structure is a key landmark for visitors walking to the Over-the-Hill districts.
- It is located in close proximity to the Bahamas Supreme Court building.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Gregory's Arch (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Gregory's Arch?
A historical stone archway marking Nassau's downtown area.
Can you drive through the arch?
Yes, it is a functional road tunnel for traffic.
When was the arch built?
It was completed in the 1850s.
Where is it located?
On Market Street near the Government House.
Are there sidewalks for pedestrians?
Yes, you can walk through the arch on the sidewalks.
Gregory's Arch: where is it located?
Gregory's Arch is located in Bahamas.
Gregory's Arch: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Andrews Presbyterian Kirk, Nassau Public Library, Government House, Nassau.
Gregory's Arch: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Gregory's Arch: why is it worth visiting?
Gregory's Arch is a prominent stone structure in Nassau, completed in 1852.
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History & landmarks
Straw Market Nassau
A famous open-air market in Nassau for handmade straw goods.
Nassau Cenotaph
A war memorial in Nassau dedicated to Bahamians who fell in both World Wars.
Rawson Square
The center of downtown Nassau, often the gateway for cruise ship passengers.
Supreme Court of the Bahamas
A classic colonial building serving as the highest judicial center of the Bahamas.
Shirley Street Post Office
A prominent government building that provided postal services for the downtown area.
Royal Victoria Hotel Ruins
The remains of the Bahamas' first luxury hotel, built during the American Civil War.
Queen's Staircase
A historic staircase in Nassau, carved out of solid limestone and featuring 66 steps.
Fort Fincastle
A historic fort on Bennet's Hill, shaped like a paddle-wheel steamer.
More places
Vendue House
Former marketplace, now the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation.
Graycliff Chocolatier
A chocolate factory in Nassau where kids and adults can take tours and learn to make their own chocolate creations.
Three Queens Statue
A statue in Nassau honoring three important queens in British and Bahamian history.
Prince George Wharf
The main cruise pier in Nassau Harbour.
Chancery Lane Ruins
The remains of old colonial buildings along a narrow lane in the heart of Nassau.
Parliament Square
The center of Bahamian government, featuring pink-hued colonial buildings.
Balcony House Museum
The oldest surviving wooden residential structure in Nassau.
Pirates of Nassau Museum
An interactive museum for kids and adults that recreates the golden age of piracy in The Bahamas.