Plizio Visual Lab

The Red House

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Red House in Port of Spain is the seat of the Parliament and a paramount symbol of democracy in Trinidad and Tobago. This striking red Beaux-Arts building was originally constructed in 1844, but it was completely destroyed by fire during the Water Riots of 1903 and rebuilt in its current form by 1907. It is renowned for its elaborate gesso ceilings and grand architecture that reflects both colonial history and modern independence. The Red House has been the backdrop for numerous pivotal historical events, including the 1990 attempted coup, during which the structure sustained significant damage. Following a comprehensive multi-year renovation that involved the discovery of indigenous ancestral remains on the site, the building was reopened to its full glory. It remains the most important landmark for the political history and constitutional governance of the twin-island republic.

Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Top sights: National Academy for the Performing Arts · House of Representatives (Trinidad and Tobago) · Red House (Trinidad and Tobago)
Nearby: Barataria (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	27	28	28	27	27	27	27	27	27	26
Rain mm	100	61	52	56	117	222	202	202	141	176	213	178

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Red House is the seat of the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago and can only be viewed from the outside. The interior is not open to the public unless special guided tours are arranged.

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Typical hours

The building is visible from the outside during daytime, but there are no fixed visiting hours. Parliamentary sessions occur on weekdays, but access is restricted.

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Photography

Photography of the exterior facade is allowed and very popular. Photographing inside or security areas is strictly prohibited.

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Time needed

For viewing the exterior, 10 to 15 minutes are sufficient. If you want to learn about the building's history, allow about 30 minutes for information boards.

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Combine with

The Red House is located in the center and can be combined with Queen's Park Savannah and the citadel. The nearby cathedral is also worth a visit.

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Getting there

The Red House is within walking distance from Port of Spain city center. Taxis stop right in front of the building; parking is available in the area.

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Insider tip

Visit the building on a weekday to potentially see parliamentarians. Check in advance for any public guided tours.

Geography

Coordinates

10.65580, -61.51130

Facts

The original structure was erected in 1844 on the Knox Street site.
The distinctive red colour was applied for Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.
In 1903, the building was razed during riots over proposed water rates.
Indigenous ancestral remains were unearthed during the 2013 renovation works.
Parliament officially returned to the Red House in January 2020.
The building features a magnificent central rotunda under a high dome.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

National Museum and Art Gallery<1 km · SWExplore →

Woodbrook2 km · SExplore →

Laventille2 km · NExplore →

Maraval3 km · EExplore →

Barataria4 km · NExplore →

Paria Coast Cliffs5 km · EExplore →

San Juan6 km · NExplore →

Westmoorings6 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town The Red House (3)

National Academy for the Performing Arts📍 landmark

Cultural center in Port of Spain for performing arts. It hosts performances and rehearsals.

House of Representatives (Trinidad and Tobago)📍 landmark

Parliament building in Port of Spain. Elected representatives of the country meet here.

Red House (Trinidad and Tobago)📍 landmark

Historic building in Port of Spain, seat of parliament. It is painted red and is a landmark.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the building?

Yes, there are guided tours.

What are the opening hours?

Monday to Friday during business hours.

Is entry free?

Yes, no fee is required for tours.

Is it accessible?

Yes, the building has been renovated.

Is photography allowed inside?

Only in designated areas.

The Red House: where is it located?

The Red House is located in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Red House: what is there to see?

Highlights include National Academy for the Performing Arts, House of Representatives (Trinidad and Tobago), Red House (Trinidad and Tobago).

The Red House: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.

The Red House: why is it worth visiting?

The Red House in Port of Spain is the seat of the Parliament and a paramount symbol of democracy in Trinidad and Tobago.