Barbados is divided into eleven parishes. Originally, a parish church would have headed each of the parishes.
This hierarchical system was derived from the Anglican church. Today, most of the parish churches are still used for worship and their styles are as varied as Barbados’ landscapes. During my visit, my father and I thought it would be neat to get pictures of each parish church. We set out with the goal of covering all the parish churches in one morning. Here’s what we saw:
Saint Philip at sunrise
Saint Philip Parish Church has an old charm to it. The pointed arches speak to the influence of Gothic architecture. The neo-Gothic style can also be seen in a lot of Bajan churches and architecture.
Saint John with the views
Like Saint Philip, Saint John Parish Church has old charm. Gothic-style tracery, buttresses, and pointed-arches elevate church’s magisterial appearance.The church sits high up in the landscape with spectacular views of the ocean and island. The church grounds are also quite beautiful: fragrant frangipani trees (known elsewhere as plumeria) and other flora are inviting for humans and green monkeys alike.
A somber Saint Joseph
We almost missed Saint Joseph Parish Church because we couldn’t find it in any our map searches. As it turns out, the church has been defunct for a few years due to structural issues. Time has taken its toll. While the church doesn’t shine like it used to, it’s still a striking image that stands out against the backdrop of the sky and ocean.
Old and new at Saint Andrew
Saint Andrew Parish Church juxtaposes old architecture with newer restorations. Weathered stone versus smooth, cream blocks. The two sides compliment each other well, as do the well-maintained gardens surrounding the church.The gardens around Saint Andrew were in full bloom, adding even more color contrasts to the church and grounds.
Peaceful Saint Peter
Saint Peter Parish Church stands out from the other churches. The beautifully restored church displays qualities of Georgian architecture.The engaged columns, pediments, and Palladian windows are a contrast to the pointed arches and portals of the neo-Gothic churches.
Saint James, where it all began
Saint James Parish Church is actually the oldest church in Barbados. It’s located in Holetown, not far from where the English first landed on the island. The church’s aged yet well-preserved exterior speaks to its seniority and significance.This church is a special place for my family too. My father grew up with this church. He recalled that his grandmother helped tend the gardens here. He also shared that on some occasions, he got to ring the church bell (located in the tower with the rectangular base).
Saint Thomas after some rain
We arrived at Saint Thomas Parish Church as rain was falling and service was ending. The church is more similar to other Georgian-style parish churches. However, compared to Saint Peter or Saint Lucy, this church features a more stark exterior. Nevertheless, it made for a great photo against a cloudy sky.
Nostalgia at Saint Lucy
Saint Lucy Parish Church is arguably one of the most beautifully preserved parish churches. The Georgian-inspired church looks sharp with its clean paint and trim.Saint Lucy is a particularly special parish church for my family. Some of my ancestors are buried here. It was also my grandmother’s church growing up.
If you were counting, you may have noticed that I only covered eight of the eleven parishes churches. Busted! Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to see the remaining three in Christ Church, Saint George, and Saint Michael respectively. These three parish churches have their own unique claims to fame. The infamous Chase Vault is located at the Christ Church Parish Church. Saint George boasts a resurrection painting by famed artist Benjamin West above the altar. And Saint Michael is now a cathedral and the tallest house of worship in Barbados.
While I’m sad I didn’t get to experience all eleven parish churches, this means I have three more reasons to visit Barbados again! For more information on Barbados’ noteworthy houses of worship, check out the Barbados Pocket Guide. There’s tons of great facts on many of the island’s Anglican churches, especially the parish churches.
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