12 Aug 2014
Antigua And Barbuda - A Treasure Trove Of Art And Historical Gems

Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority

Antigua and Barbuda, famed for its 365 white sand beaches, has an array of displays that put them on the map when it comes to art and culture. The Islands most iconic landmarks that commemorate the island's rich cultural heritage and history include Nelson's Dockyard and Betty's Hope.

One of Antigua's most prized possessions, Nelson's Dockyard, honours Antigua's past as a naval base in the 1700s. Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, the beautifully restored shipyard is one of the only working Georgian dockyards in the world.  The Admirals House has been converted into the Dockyard Museum; exhibiting artefacts, Royal Navy relics and models that date back from the arrival of Horatio Nelson up to the present day.

From 1 – 3 September 2014, Nelson's Dockyard will also host the Hamlet Globe-To-Globe tour, a celebration taking place in every country across the world, celebrating William Shakespeare's 450th birthday. Director Dominic Dromgode and his cast of twelve, dazzle and entertain in Shakespeare's classic tragedy of deferred revenge. The show will be a one-of-a-kind cultural delight for both locals and tourists.   www.globetoglobe.shakespearesglobe.com  

For many generations, livelihoods in Antigua were based upon the sugar plantation that was founded in the 1650s, now known as Betty's Hope. Of the hundreds of windmills dotted across the island, two have been restored to give a sense of the dramatic importance the sugar production industry would have had for Antigua's economy. The windmills form part of the open-air museum and a visitor centre has been created using the old cotton house store room.

Art lovers will be inspired and captivated by the exhibitions and pieces on display at the Harmony Hall Art Gallery located in a beautifully preserved cut-stone plantation house. Visitors can not only enjoy the artwork whilst sipping a complementary cocktail but have the rare opportunity to meet the artists and collectors responsible for the work. One gallery is devoted to the current exhibition whilst others display original artwork by a collection of artists and a large selection of prints. All inspired by the Caribbean, it provides the perfect memento of a trip to the island. www.harmonyhallantigua.com

For more information on arts and cultural displays in Antigua and Barbuda, visit: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or call the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority on 0203 668 3800.

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Notes to Editors:
High resolution images of the destination available on request.

Paradise Islands in the Caribbean Sea

Located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, Antigua and its sister island Barbuda are known for their numerous coves, bays and clear turquoise-coloured waters. Served by British Airways and Virgin Atlantic from London Gatwick Airport, the eight and a half hour flight will drop you into a tropical paradise to enjoy one of Antigua's 365 white sand beaches. Steeped in culture and history with breathtaking panoramic views it is the perfect destination for family holidays, honeymoons, photo/fashion shoots and more.