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Gordon House
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Landmark
Gordon House serves as the official seat of the Parliament of Jamaica, representing the heart of the nation’s democratic governance. Located on Duke Street in Kingston, this functionalist modernist building was opened in 1960 to replace the aging Headquarters House. It is named in honor of George William Gordon, a national hero and martyr who was executed following the 1865 Morant Bay Rebellion while fighting for the rights of the oppressed. The house accommodates both the House of Representatives and the Senate, where the island's laws are debated and passed. Inside, the walls are adorned with portraits of Jamaica’s founding fathers and national heroes, emphasizing the weight of history in the legislative process. Visitors can observe parliamentary sessions from the public gallery, gaining firsthand insight into the political discourse and constitutional traditions of this sovereign Caribbean nation.
- Location: Jamaica
- Top sights: Sha'are Shalom Synagogue · Church of the Redeemer, Jamaica · Parliament of Jamaica
- Nearby: Hellshire Beach (12 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 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 33 | 19 | 29 | 41 | 111 | 89 | 69 | 104 | 127 | 170 | 87 | 49 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Gordon House is the official meeting place of Jamaica's Parliament in Kingston. The building can be visited on guided tours, though access is often limited to specific times.
Typical hours
The building is typically open to visitors on weekdays during parliamentary sessions. Exact hours vary widely; advance booking with the parliament administration is recommended.
Photography
Photography inside the building may be restricted, especially during sessions. Exterior shots are generally allowed and showcase the impressive colonial architecture.
Time needed
A guided tour typically lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on depth of information. Those wanting to explore the surroundings should allow an hour.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Emancipation Park or the Jamaica National Heritage Trust. The Bob Marley Museum is also not far.
Getting there
Gordon House is located in downtown Kingston on Duke Street, near Parade Square. It's easily reached by taxi or bus; a few minutes walk from the city center.
Insider tip
Check in advance if parliament is in session, as the visit is especially interesting then. Bring an ID as registration may be required for entry.
Geography
Facts
- Officially opened on October 26, 1960, shortly before independence.
- Named after George William Gordon, one of Jamaica’s seven National Heroes.
- Houses the 63-member House of Representatives and the 21-member Senate.
- Replaced Headquarters House, which had served as the seat of government since 1872.
- Located on Duke Street, a historic administrative center in downtown Kingston.
- Features the ceremonial Mace, which symbolizes the authority of the Speaker.
- Site of the annual State Opening of Parliament by the Governor-General.
- A new Parliament building is currently planned for the National Heroes Park.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Gordon House (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can the public attend sessions at Gordon House?
Yes, public sessions can be viewed from the visitor gallery; prior arrangement is often needed.
What is the function of Gordon House?
It serves as the official meeting place of the Jamaican Parliament.
Are there strict security checks at the entrance?
Yes, visitors must undergo security screening; ID and appropriate dress code are required.
After whom was the building named?
It was named after George William Gordon, a Jamaican National Hero.
Is photography allowed inside Gordon House?
Photography is strictly prohibited inside and during official sessions.
Gordon House: where is it located?
Gordon House is located in Jamaica.
Gordon House: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sha'are Shalom Synagogue, Church of the Redeemer, Jamaica, Parliament of Jamaica.
Gordon House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Gordon House: why is it worth visiting?
Gordon House serves as the official seat of the Parliament of Jamaica, representing the heart of the nation’s democratic governance.
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History & landmarks
National Heroes Park
A botanical garden and shrine where many Jamaican national heroes and leaders are buried.
Institute of Jamaica
The primary institution for the encouragement and preservation of Jamaican literature, science, and art.
Ward Theatre
A historic theater in downtown Kingston, rebuilt after the 1907 earthquake.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
A Roman Catholic cathedral in Kingston known for its impressive dome and frescoes.
🗺️
National Gallery of Jamaica
The country's premier art museum, housing an extensive collection of Jamaican artwork.
Emancipation Park
A public park in New Kingston symbolizing freedom and the end of slavery.
Sabina Park
Jamaica's most famous cricket stadium in Kingston, home to the Kingston Cricket Club.
Half Way Tree Clock Tower
A Victorian monument at a busy intersection in St.
Nature
More places
Hope Zoo
The largest zoo in Kingston, nestled within the Hope Botanical Gardens, housing a variety of wildlife.
High Mountain Coffee Plantation
A high-altitude farm that produces the world-famous Jamaican coffee.
Santa Cruz Mountains
A mountain range in St.
Pedro Bluff
A series of cliffs on the south coast of St.
Black River Lower Morass
One of the largest freshwater wetlands in the Caribbean, famous for its boat safaris and unique river ecosystems.
Cinnamon Hill Great House
A historic plantation house once owned by the family of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and later became the Jamaican home of country music l…
The Cage, Montego Bay
A small, whitewashed building from 1806 that served as a temporary jail for runaway slaves, drunken sailors, and other petty criminals.