Barbados boasts a rich legacy steeped in history, and at the center of it all is its Parliament—the third oldest continuously functioning Parliament in the Commonwealth. From its inception in the 17th century to its present-day role in a thriving democratic society, the Barbados Parliament represents resilience, evolution, and the spirit of governance. Having gained independence from the British in 1966, Barbados evolved into a full-fledged republic in 2021.

The Birth of a Political System

The Parliament of Barbados was established in 1639, during a period when European colonial powers were expanding their global influence. The British settlers in Barbados, recognizing the need for local governance, created this institution to administer and legislate for the island’s affairs. This early form of self-government was remarkable and set a precedent for parliamentary systems across the Caribbean.

The Parliament’s first assembly, known as the House of Assembly, was made up of landowners—primarily wealthy plantation owners and merchants who had significant economic influence on the island. Their decisions and policies were focused on maintaining control over resources and labor, which was heavily dependent on the enslaved African population during that era. Before the Parliament Buildings were erected, the legislature met in various locations around Bridgetown, including taverns and ale houses, an arrangement that many governors found unsuitable. The need for a dedicated space became evident, both to house parliamentary sessions and to safeguard public records, which had previously been scattered across different government offices. Though Barbados’ Parliament was established in 1639, these buildings were only constructed between 1870 and 1874, serving as the official seat of governance ever since.

The buildings were designed in the Victorian Gothic style, reminiscent of British architecture from the era. With two separate wings built using local coral stone, they feature intricate detailing, grand clock towers, and stained-glass windows depicting key moments in Barbadian history. The East Wing houses the Senate and House of Assembly chambers, while the West Wing serves as the National Museum of Parliament. The museum is currently being refurbished and wasn’t accessible at the time of our visit. Originally known as the Public Buildings, they were officially renamed the Parliament Buildings in 1989. In 2011, they were designated as UNESCO-protected properties within the World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, further cementing their cultural and historical significance Parliament.

The first non-white parliamentarian in Barbados was Samuel Jackman Prescod, who was elected to the House of Assembly in 1843. Prescod was born in Bridgetown around 1806, the son of Lydia Smith, a free woman of colour, and William Prescod, a prosperous white planter. Legally free, yet barred from voting, holding office, or even testifying in court, he grew up tasting both privilege and apartheid at once, this fueled his activism. As a pioneering figure in Barbadian politics, he advocated for the rights of free blacks and the working class, including poor whites. Prescod also helped establish the Liberal Party, which sought greater social justice and political representation for marginalized groups. Upon his death in 1871, his body was interred at the nearby St Mary’s Church and not the St Michael’s Cathedral which was reserved for those of the higher social class. His contributions to Barbados’ political landscape were so significant that he was later honored as one of the country’s National Heroes in 1998. His legacy continues to be celebrated, including his appearance on the Barbadian $20 banknote.

Barbados operates under a parliamentary democracy, where the government is divided into the Senate and House of Assembly. The Senate (Upper house) consists of twenty-one members, twelve of whom are appointed by the Prime Minister, seven by the President, representing various interests in the community and 2 by the Leader of the Opposition. Appointed members provide guidance and refinement to legislation.

As you enter the Senate chamber, your eyes are immediately drawn to this finely crafted oval mahogany table. It’s part of the original furniture and it commands centre stage. The stained-glass windows showcase the Coats-of-Arms of former Speakers of the House and Presidents of the Legislative Council. The Waterford Crystal chandeliers, gifted in 1989, add a regal touch to the space.

Positioned at the far end of the Senate are two red armchairs which have their own fascinating history. They were commissioned in London in the early 1870s—just before the new Parliament Buildings opened in 1874—carved in solid Barbadian mahogany that had been shipped to England, upholstered in scarlet damask, and then returned to Bridgetown as the ceremonial seats for the President of the Legislative Council / Senate and the Clerk. When Queen Elisabeth II was still head of State, she and Prince Philip would occupy those chairs when they attended and presided over special legislative sessions. Interestingly enough, one chair which is slightly taller than the other was reserved for the queen. They are mainly for display now and can be viewed up close but not sat on.

The House of Assembly chamber (Lower house) is designed for debate and legislation, with seating arranged to facilitate discussion among elected representatives. From the sixteen landowners who represented the original six parishes, this chamber now consists of thirty representatives who serve five-year terms. There are currently eleven parishes divided into thirty constituencies.

The chamber with its high ceilings and wooden paneling is adorned with historical artifacts and portraits, reflecting Barbados’ political evolution. The colorful stained-glass windows depict British rulers from James 1 to Queen Victoria. The main entrance has a Bust of Sir William Conrad Reeves, the first black Chief Justice. At the end of his distinguished career, he would become the first black person to be knighted.

The Governor-General – A ceremonial role acting on behalf of the British Crown until 2021, when Barbados became a republic. The transformation into a republic saw the removal of the Queen as head of state, with a newly appointed President assuming the role, ushering in a new era of self-governance.

As a developing island nation, born out of a slave colony to achieving full republic status, to having its first female Prime Minister and President, Barbados is not without its challenges, but the future can be bright, depending on how we chart our own course into the 21st century.

If you’re planning to explore the Barbados Parliament Buildings, you’re in for a treat—these neo-Gothic gems in Bridgetown offer more than just political history.

🏛️ What You’ll See

• Guided tours take you through the House of Assembly and Senate Chambers, where you’ll learn about Barbados’ 385-year-old parliamentary tradition.
• The Museum of Parliament and National Heroes Gallery, located in the West Wing, offers interactive exhibits on the island’s democratic journey and its eleven National Heroes. (Currently closed for renovation)
• You’ll also get to admire stained-glass windows, mahogany furnishings, and the two iconic red armchairs in the Senate.

🕰️ When and How to Visit

You can book through the official Parliament website or via tour platforms, which offer walking tours that include the Parliament Buildings as part of a broader Bridgetown experience.

Tours are typically available Monday to Friday, but it’s best to check ahead for availability, especially when Parliament is in session. Some tours provide audio headsets, so you won’t miss a word of the rich commentary—even if you’re distracted by the dazzling architecture.

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