Spanish Town in Jamaica
Natural Beauty of Jamaica
The unique and diverse nature of Jamaica is its main attraction. The ancient inhabitants of the island called it 'land of streams'. The island has a hundred rivers and about ten mineral water springs. The Jamaican waterfalls are stunningly beautiful. A true wonder of nature – Dunn's River Falls – cascades down, shimmering and sparkling in the sun. If you dare to climb to its top with a guide, a breathtaking panorama will unfold before your eyes.
Jamaica has always attracted speleologists with its numerous caves suitable for tourism. Harrison Cave is the most famous karst cave on the island.
The Jamaican Riviera adorns the northern coast of the island. On one side stretches the endless blue sea, on the other – a steep rocky cliff.
In the east of the island there are mountains, their highest peak is Blue Mountain Peak, with a height of about 2220 meters. From the height you can observe amazing landscapes, plantations and landscapes stretching for thousands of kilometers.
A walk in the mountains will bring you true delight, as you will have the opportunity to visit coffee plantations and taste freshly brewed coffee. After all, it is no secret that Jamaican coffee is the most exquisite in taste in the world. It is valued for its rich, tart aroma. It is Jamaica that produces and exports one of the most expensive coffee varieties – 'Jamaica Blue Mountain'. It is advantageously distinguished by a not very dense consistency, a subtle nutty aroma and a fruity aftertaste.
You can touch the history of the island by visiting the Belvedere estate. You will see magnificent gardens, sugar cane plantations and a dam that is over three hundred years old. This estate maintains the atmosphere of the 18th century, reflecting the life and way of life of slave owners and slaves. The tour also includes lunch of traditional Jamaican dishes and a concert with national motifs.
Cultural and Historical Heritage of Jamaica
Jamaica is an island with a rich cultural heritage and complex history. Scientists testify that the Indians were the first to live here. During the years of Spanish occupation, they died out, and were replaced on the island by the British. During three hundred years on the island, the British brought many slaves from African countries.
There is evidence that after slavery was abolished, workers from India and China worked on Jamaican plantations. Later, Arab and Jewish traders settled on the island. Thus, over many centuries, a multinational society developed in Jamaica, and its own unique cultural traditions were formed.
The capital of Jamaica, located in its southern part, deep in the bay, is an important trading center of the island. The city of Kingston today serves as the main port of the state. Nearby is Palisadoes Airport. Although at first glance the city is difficult to call a capital, – its streets have a lot of old housing, dilapidated buildings and not so many attractions. Various museums are most popular.
For example, the Museum of Geology, the Royal House, the Armed Forces Museum, the Museum of Natural History, and of course the Bob Marley Museum – the home of the world-famous reggae performer. In the house of the legendary musician, everything is mostly preserved as it was during his lifetime. Guitar, personal belongings, song lyrics written in his hand, and even the shirt he gave concerts in – museum exhibits. And watching a film about the work and life facts of Bob Marley leaves a special impression. The museum building was officially granted monument status on the eve of the 25th anniversary of the musician's death.
Also in the Jamaican capital, it will be interesting to visit the National Gallery, which features sculptures from the 19th century and works by local artists, as well as stroll through the Castleton Botanical Garden and Caimanas Park.
You can touch the historical heritage of Jamaica by visiting Spanish Town, founded in the 16th century by the son of Christopher Columbus. This place presents documents and items telling about the colonization of the island, as well as letters and manuscripts of great historical figures: Louis XIV, George Washington, the legendary will of Henry Morgan.
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