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Da Costa Building

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Landmark
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Da Costa Building (Barbados)

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The Da Costa Building in Bridgetown is a magnificent landmark that reflects the rich mercantile history of Barbados. Situated on the prominent Broad Street, this historic edifice showcases classic colonial architecture with its elegant facade and refined ornamental details. Originally built as the headquarters for one of the island's most successful trading firms, it served for decades as a central hub for local commerce. One of its most striking features is the expansive interior atrium, which creates a sense of light and openness that was quite advanced for its time. While the building now houses a variety of modern retail stores and offices, it has meticulously preserved its historic character and architectural integrity. For anyone exploring Bridgetown, the Da Costa Building features a fascinating look into the 19th-century prosperity of the capital. It stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and economic ambition of an era when Barbados was a leading commercial force in the Caribbean, blending historical elegance with the lively pulse of modern island life.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626272828282828282827
Rain mm34191928527274959813210749

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Da Costa Building is a historic department store in Bridgetown, now housing various shops and offices. The facade can be admired from the street; the interior is accessible during business hours.
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Typical hours
Opening hours of the shops vary, but they are typically open Monday to Saturday. On Sundays and public holidays the building is usually closed.
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Photography
The colonial facade of Da Costa Building is a popular photo subject. Best photographed in late morning when the sun illuminates the architectural details.
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Time needed
Viewing the exterior takes about 5-10 minutes. If you want to browse the shops inside, allow 15-30 minutes depending on interest.
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Combine with
The building is located on Broad Street, Bridgetown's main shopping street. Nearby are National Heroes Square and Independence Square.
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Getting there
Da Costa Building is located in central Bridgetown, easily reachable on foot. Buses stop at nearby Fairchild Street; parking at Independence Square is fee-based.
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Insider tip
Examine the intricate decorations on the facade carefully - they show details of Victorian architecture. Combine the visit with a stroll through the adjacent alleys.

Geography

Coordinates
13.09720, -59.61390

Facts

  • Built in 1905
  • Architectural style: Belle Époque
  • Terracotta facade ornaments
  • Mansard roof with dormers
  • Originally a department store
  • Heritage listed since 1990

Explore nearby

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ClermontClermont3 km · EExplore →
West Indies Rum DistilleryWest Indies Rum Distillery3 km · SEExplore →
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Hothersal TurningHothersal Turning4 km · NEExplore →
Graeme HallGraeme Hall5 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Da Costa Building (3)

Parliament of Barbados📍 landmark

Seat of the legislative assembly of Barbados, located in Bridgetown.

Parliament Buildings (Barbados)📍 landmark

Building complex in Bridgetown housing the two chambers of parliament.

Garrison Historic Area📍 landmark

Historic military area in Barbados, featuring forts and barracks.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Da Costa building?
A magnificent Victorian building on Broad Street in Bridgetown.
What was it originally used for?
It was the flagship of a major trading house and department store.
Can you go shopping there?
Today it houses various shops and a shopping mall.
When was it built?
The prominent facade dates back to 1898.
What is the special design feature?
The intricate woodwork and classic colonial architecture.
Da Costa Building: where is it located?
Da Costa Building is located in Barbados.
Da Costa Building: what is there to see?
Highlights include Parliament of Barbados, Parliament Buildings (Barbados), Garrison Historic Area.
Da Costa Building: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Da Costa Building: why is it worth visiting?
The Da Costa Building in Bridgetown is a magnificent landmark that reflects the rich mercantile history of Barbados.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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