Jamaica’s history isn’t just something to know—it’s something travelers can feel in the island’s music, food, and spirit.
Before colonization, the Tainos called the island Xaymaca—land of wood and water. Their influence lives on in local names and cultural traditions.
History You Can Walk Through: Story-Rich Stops
These four heritage landmarks offer history buffs a chance to experience Jamaica’s past—up close and unforgettable:
1. National Heroes Park (Kingston) A sacred space where the island’s greatest leaders are laid to rest—from Marcus Garvey to Nanny of the Maroons. This is a pilgrimage site for travelers interested in Black heritage, social justice, and Caribbean pride.
2. Charles Town Maroon Village (Portland) Culture lives here. Let your clients step into a Maroon community where they’ll hear drumming, see rituals, and connect with descendants of warriors who refused to be colonized. It's living history in action.
3. Port Royal (Kingston) Once the wealthiest—and wildest—city in the New World, Port Royal sank into the sea during a massive 1692 earthquake. Today, it’s a site of ghost stories, pirate legends, and sunken treasure. Perfect for curious minds and history adventurers.
4. Devon House (Kingston) Built by George Stiebel, Jamaica’s first Black millionaire, this grand mansion is a testament to ambition and elegance. Pair the story with a scoop of the island’s best ice cream, and you’ve got a stop that mixes legacy with indulgence.