Home > Barbados Trivia

Barbados is a small island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. But did you know that there's a lot more to this tiny paradise than meets the eye? Here are some fascinating facts about Barbados that you might not have known:

• The name "Barbados" comes from the Portuguese word "Los Barbados," which means "the bearded ones." This name was given to the island by the Portuguese explorer Pedro a Campos in the 16th century, because of the fig trees with hanging aerial roots that reminded him of beards.
• Barbados has the third oldest parliament in the world, after the United Kingdom and Iceland. The parliament was established in 1639 and has been in continuous existence ever since.
• Rihanna, the international pop star, is from Barbados. Born and raised on the island, she often references her Bajan (Barbadian) roots in her music and has been an ambassador for her home country on numerous occasions.
• Barbados is home to the world's oldest rum distillery, Mount Gay Rum. The distillery was founded in 1703 and has been producing award-winning rum ever since. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and sample some of the delicious rum on offer.
• The island is home to the famous Bathsheba rock formations, which are natural coral and limestone formations that have been shaped by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean over thousands of years. These stunning rock formations have become a popular destination for photographers and tourists.
• The Barbados flag is one of the only national flags in the world that has a trident on it. The three points of the trident represent the island's three principles of democracy, freedom, and justice.
• Barbados is known as the birthplace of rum punch. This delicious cocktail is made with rum, lime juice, sugar, and nutmeg, and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• The island has a strong cricketing culture and has produced some of the world's greatest cricketers, including Sir Garfield Sobers, who is widely considered one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of the sport.
• Barbados is home to the world's rarest sea turtle, the hawksbill turtle. These beautiful creatures can be seen swimming in the crystal clear waters surrounding the island and are protected by conservation efforts.
• In the movie Air Force One, Harrison Ford's character mentions Barbados at around the 1 minute 20 second mark. Barbados also features in an episode of the popular TV show Friends.

• Finally, Barbados has a unique national dish called "cou-cou and flying fish." Cou-cou is a mixture of cornmeal and okra, and is typically served with fried or grilled flying fish, a staple in Bajan cuisine.

In conclusion, Barbados is a fascinating and beautiful country with a rich history and culture. Whether you're a beach lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there's something for everyone to enjoy on this enchanting island.