Making History: Which Historical Sites Should You Visit In Turks and Caicos?
Turks and Caicos is rich in history and heritage. The name Turks is believed to originate from a species of indigenous cactus, whereas Caicos is said to have been derived from a phrase meaning “string of islands.”
Today, Turks and Caicos is the fastest growing economy in the Caribbean that prides itself with protecting its history which dates as far back as 1492, when Christopher Columbus first set foot on the island.
This island nation has become a popular beach destination, with its variety of international cuisines and famous landmarks. Visiting historical sites is an essential part of your visit to Turks and Caicos, as the best way to immerse yourself in a new place is to learn about its history and get lost in its culture.
Here are a number of historical sites in Turks and Caicos you mustn’t miss:
The Grand Turk Lighthouse
This stands at the only lighthouse on the island and dates back to 1852. Its primary structure was made by designer Alexander Gordon. Previously, the light’s visibility was around 15 miles. The tower now stands tall at 60-feet, and 108-feet above sea-level!
Turks and Caicos National Museum
If you’re a history lover, this place is for you. This museum is rich with interactive displays and artifacts that perfectly portray the history of the nation. It encompasses interesting subjects like the oldest European ship ever found, Lucayan Indian culture, slavery, and so on. The museum is housed in a beautiful historic building.
Sapodilla Bay Hill Rock Carvings
This interesting site is located on the south coast of Providenciales, and the carvings can be seen by climbing up a steep hill to the top of the Sapodilla Hill. The views above are breathtaking and will surely maximize your experience. The inscriptions in Sapodilla Bay Hill originate in the 1700s and 1800s and were made by stranded sailors and travelers.
Her Majesty’s Prison
This is a colonial prison located in the ancient Cockburn Town on Grand Turk. Built in the 1830s, it was the nation’s sole prison until 1994. A prominent feature of the prison is its grand Bell Tower, which was traditionally rung five times daily. This site has become immensely popular among tourists today, and signifies some of the dark times the nation faced.
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