Unapologetically Black: Blood in the Mortar of Speightstown
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We don't just walk; we convene. By gathering at the Esplanade, we occupy the silence left by historical erasure, filling the void with stories of Black economic sovereignty and defiance. The "Blood in the Mortar" of the Skinner House to the living triumph of Tyrone’s Bar, we bridge the gap between kidnapped Africans and their sovereign descendants. This is not a history lesson—it is a resurrection of the Black pulse.
At the Esplanade, we speak into the void where landmarks were erased. We resurrect the martyrs of the 1675 and 1692 plots—those burned and beheaded in these streets to break the Black spirit. We expose the psychological warfare of Fortuna’s betrayal and the resilience found after the 1780 hurricane. We celebrate the town’s unique economic defiance: a powerhouse of Free Black shopkeepers who ran underground trade networks with the enslaved. The fire of 1876, proved that the Black struggle always reclaimed its own heat. This is just a snippet of the many stories to be told.
Available options
Unapologetically Black: Blood in the Mortar of Speightstown
What's included
Bottle of water
Detailed itinerary
1
Unapologetically Black: Blood in the Mortar of Speightstown is an act of resistance. Because our landmarks are buried under colonial myth, we cannot tour what "is"—we tour what must be remembered. Since few physical sites remain, we convene at the Speightstown Esplanade to resurrect the stories history forgot.
We reveal a town that held more Free Black businesses than any other—thriving hubs of economic sovereignty where Black shopkeepers and enslaved workers built a defiant, independent world. We map the Price of Liberty: martyrs burnt and beheaded; the Governor’s Campaign of Terror; and the Cost of Betrayal in Fortuna’s story. We honor the Cuffee rebellion and the Black struggle of 1876, when the fire of revolt torched the Great House and sent the plantocracy fleeing.
From the extraction of the Skinner House to the sovereignty of Tyrone’s Bar, we fill the void. We are the living archives of a stolen history. Reclaimed. Unfiltered. Unapologetically Black.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Meeting point
We meet in front of the museum.
About Barbados
Barbados is a vibrant Caribbean island known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and lively culture. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Carlisle Bay
A picturesque bay with calm waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
Bridgetown
The capital city of Barbados, known for its historic sites, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.
Historical
Full day
Free to explore, some attractions may have entry fees
Harrison's Cave
A stunning limestone cave system with underground lakes and waterfalls, explored via tram or hiking.
Nature
Half day
Moderate, around $30-40 USD
Animal Flower Cave
A sea cave with natural pools and stunning ocean views, perfect for swimming and exploring.
Nature
Half day
Moderate, around $15-20 USD
Oistins Fish Fry
A lively Friday night market and street party featuring fresh seafood, local music, and dancing.
Cultural
Evening
Moderate, around $20-30 USD for food and drinks
Must-Try Local Dishes
Flying Fish and Cou-Cou
A national dish made with flying fish and cornmeal-based cou-cou (similar to polenta).
Dinner
Contains fish, gluten-free
Macaroni Pie
A baked dish made with macaroni, cheese, and spices, often served as a side dish.
Dinner
Vegetarian, contains dairy and gluten
Pudding and Souse
A traditional dish featuring sweet potato pudding and spicy pickled pork.
Breakfast
Contains pork, gluten-free
Bajan Fish Cakes
Deep-fried fish cakes made with salted cod, herbs, and spices.
Snack
Contains fish, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Surfing
Snorkeling
Hiking
Caving
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Bajan (Creole English)
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Barbadian Dollar (BBD)
Time Zone
AST (GMT-4)
Electricity
115VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Barbados is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, exercise caution in isolated areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on fares in advance
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Grantley Adams International Airport • 16 km from Bridgetown
By bus
Bridgetown Bus Terminal, South Coast Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded. Fixed routes and schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Barbados Taxi, Uber (limited availability)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Bridgetown
Holetown
St. Lawrence Gap
Bathsheba
Day trips
Animal Flower Cave
30 km from Bridgetown • Half day
A sea cave with natural pools and stunning ocean views, perfect for swimming and exploring.
Harrison's Cave
20 km from Bridgetown • Half day
A stunning limestone cave system with underground lakes and waterfalls, explored via tram or hiking.
Bathsheba Beach
25 km from Bridgetown • Half day
A rugged and beautiful beach known for its surfing and natural beauty.
Festivals
Crop Over Festival • June to August
Oistins Fish Festival • Last weekend of April
Holetown Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce and souvenirs
- Try the local rum and ask for recommendations from locals
- Explore the island's historic sites and learn about its rich history
- Respect local customs and traditions, and be friendly and welcoming to locals
- Stay in well-populated areas and exercise caution at night
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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