Barbados Beyond the Beaches

Barbados, located in the eastern Caribbean, is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, but there is so much more to discover beyond the coastline. From its rich cultural heritage and centuries-old traditions to its vibrant calendar of events, culinary scene and globally recognised icons, the island has a unique story to tell.

Here are a few fun facts that showcase what makes Barbados truly one of a kind.

1. Barbados is one of the world’s newest republics

Barbados became a republic on November 30, 2021, replacing the British monarch as head of state while remaining a member of the Commonwealth.

2. Rihanna is officially a National Hero.

Rihanna was named a National Heroine of Barbados in 2021, becoming the youngest person to receive the honour. Adding to her deep connection to the island, Westbury New Road, where Rihanna grew up and where her childhood home is located, was renamed Rihanna Drive in 2017. The street has since become a popular stop for visitors wanting to see where the global superstar’s story began.

3. Barbados is the birthplace of rum

Barbados has a particularly strong historical claim; records place the establishment of the Mount Gay distillery in 1703, making it one of the oldest documented commercial rum distilleries in the world. Kill-Devil” was an early nickname for Barbados rum, a wonderfully colourful piece of rum history.

4. The grapefruit originated in Barbados 

Grapefruit is believed to have originated in Barbados as a natural cross between sweet orange and pomelo. The fruit was reportedly discovered growing in the tropical forest of Welchman Hall Gully, and early colonists called it the “Forbidden Fruit.”

5. Barbados has its own breed of sheep 

The Barbados Blackbelly sheep is one of the island’s indigenous animals—and at first glance, you might mistake them for goats! With their short coats, they’ve naturally adapted to Barbados’ warm Caribbean climate, making them well suited to the island’s environment. Recognisable by their dark bellies and distinctive markings, these unique sheep are an important part of Barbados’ agricultural heritage.

6. The island's national dish is flying fish and cou-cou 

Flying fish is more than just a charming name. The fish actually launches itself from the water and glides through the air using its wing-like fins. Iconic to Barbados, it’s featured in the island’s national dish and even makes an appearance on Barbadian currency and passports.

7. Chattel houses

Barbados has a distinctive architectural tradition of wooden houses that were historically designed so they could be dismantled and moved.

8. Road Tennis was invented in Barbados 

Road Tennis originated in Barbados around 1910 and was originally played on—you guessed it—the road. Today, it's recognised as a distinctly Barbadian sport. 

9. Barbados has one of the oldest continuous Parliamentary traditions in the Americas 

Barbados is home to the third oldest Parliament in the Western Hemisphere, marking it as one of the world’s most historic institutions.

10. The name “Barbados” may have come from a tree 

The island's name is commonly associated with the bearded fig trees found on the island. The hanging aerial roots reminded early Portuguese explorers of beards, giving rise to “Los Barbados,” or “the bearded ones.”