Plizio Visual Lab

Holetown Monument

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

monument

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The Holetown Monument is a significant historical landmark located in the heart of Holetown on the west coast of Barbados. It commemorates the arrival of the English ship 'Olive Blossom' in 1625, marking the very first time the British set foot on the island and claimed it for King James I. The monument, an elegant stone obelisk, was erected in 1905 to celebrate the 280th anniversary of this landing. Holetown, originally named Jamestown, was the island's first settlement and remained its primary port for many years. Its name was eventually changed to Holetown due to the small stream or 'hole' where ships were cleaned and repaired. Every February, the area around the monument comes alive with the Holetown Festival, a week-long celebration of Barbadian culture, music, and food, honoring the island's rich heritage. For history enthusiasts, the monument serves as a poignant reminder of the colonial beginnings that shaped the Caribbean nation's legal, educational, and social systems, making it in the historic parish of Saint James.

Location: Barbados
Top sights: Holetown · St. James Church, Barbados · Bellairs Research Institute
Nearby: Six Men's (4 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	26	26	26	27	28	28	28	28	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	34	19	19	28	52	72	74	95	98	132	107	49

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Holetown Monument stands in a publicly accessible spot in central Holetown. Visitors can view the monument from outside at any time and explore the surrounding area.

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Typical hours

As an outdoor monument, there are no opening hours. It can be viewed around the clock, best during daylight to read the inscriptions.

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Photography

Photography is allowed without restrictions. The monument features nice photo subjects against the tropical vegetation, especially in golden light.

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Time needed

A brief stop at the monument takes about 10-15 minutes. Those who want to explore the area's history can allow 30 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with nearby Limegrove Lifestyle Centre and Holetown Beach. St. James Parish Church is also within walking distance.

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Getting there

The monument is on the main street in Holetown, easily reached on foot. Buses and taxis stop nearby; parking available on the street or at Limegrove Centre.

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Insider tip

Read the information board at the monument to learn about the British arrival. A visit during high tide provides a nice view over Holetown Bay.