Saint Thomas, Barbados facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Saint Thomas
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Map of Barbados showing the Saint Thomas parish
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| Country | Barbados |
| Largest city | Welchman Hall |
| Government | |
| • Type | Parliamentary democracy |
| Area | |
| • Total | 34 km2 (13 sq mi) |
| Population
(2010 census)
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| • Total | 14,249 |
| • Density | 419/km2 (1,085/sq mi) |
| ISO 3166 code | BB-11 |
Saint Thomas, often called St. Thomas, is a special place in the middle of Barbados. It is one of only two areas on the island that do not touch the sea. The other landlocked area is Saint George, which is to the south. Saint Thomas is known for its beautiful green hills and valleys. It is a quiet parish with lots of nature to explore.
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Exploring Saint Thomas
Saint Thomas is a parish located right in the heart of Barbados. It covers about 34 square kilometers (13 square miles). This makes it a medium-sized parish on the island. In 2010, about 14,249 people lived here. The largest community in Saint Thomas is Welchman Hall.
Where is Saint Thomas?
Imagine Barbados as a map. Saint Thomas is right in the center, like the heart of the island. Because it is in the middle, it does not have any beaches. Instead, it has rolling hills and deep valleys. These features make it a very green and natural area. It is a great place to see the island's inland beauty.
Nature and Green Spaces
Saint Thomas is famous for its lush, green landscapes. You can find many types of plants and trees here. The parish has several natural attractions. These places show off Barbados's amazing plant life. Many areas are protected to keep them wild and beautiful.
Welchman Hall Gully
One of the most famous spots is Welchman Hall Gully. This is a deep valley that was once a cave. The roof of the cave fell in many years ago. Now, it is a beautiful tropical garden. You can walk through it on paved paths. It is home to many different plants. You might even see wild green monkeys playing in the trees. The gully is a peaceful place to learn about nature. It is a great example of Barbados's natural beauty.
A Look at History
Saint Thomas parish has a long history, like the rest of Barbados. It was named after Saint Thomas the Apostle. The parish was one of the original six parishes created in Barbados. This happened way back in 1629. Over the centuries, it has been a farming area. People grew sugar cane on large plantations. Today, you can still see old plantation houses. These buildings tell stories of the past. They show how life used to be on the island.
Fun Things to Do
Even without beaches, Saint Thomas offers many fun activities. You can explore the natural beauty of the gully. There are also hiking trails for those who love to walk. Some old estates are open to visitors. They offer a glimpse into Barbados's history. The parish is also home to local shops and eateries. You can try traditional Bajan food there. It is a great place to experience the local culture.
Daily Life in the Parish
Life in Saint Thomas is generally quiet and peaceful. Many people who live here work in farming or tourism. The parish has schools and community centers. These places help bring people together. Families enjoy the calm environment. It is a close-knit community. People often know their neighbors. This makes Saint Thomas a friendly place to live and visit.
