St. James Church, Barbados, Anglican church in Holetown, Barbados
St. James Church in Holetown is a stone building with Caribbean design features, built from coral limestone walls with tall arches and a raised nave topped by wooden beams. The structure shows the craftsmanship of its era, designed to withstand the tropical climate.
The church was founded in 1628 to serve English settlers and was originally built from wood. After a devastating hurricane in 1675, it was rebuilt in stone during the 1690s, and that structure survives today.
The church serves as a gathering place for major life events in the community, where residents mark weddings, christenings, and moments of reflection. It stands at the heart of local identity and continues to shape how people in Holetown mark their important occasions.
The location sits in Holetown on the western side of the island and is easily accessible, with regular services held in morning and evening hours. Visitors should dress respectfully and be aware that special ceremonies such as baptisms and weddings take place during regular times.
On the north wall stands a gate called 'The Devil's Gate,' which clergy traditionally open before services to let out unwanted spirits. This unusual ritual shows how local beliefs and church practices have woven together over time.
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