How well do you know Barbados? Whether you’re a local, a frequent visitor, or someone who’s dreaming of a trip to this island paradise, take our Barbados quiz to test your knowledge!
Barbados General Knowledge Questions
- What is the capital city of Barbados?
- Which ocean surrounds Barbados?
- What is the currency used in Barbados?
- Which international music superstar hails from Barbados?
- What is the national sport of Barbados?
- What is the national dish of Barbados?
- On which date did Barbados gain independence?
- What is the national flower of Barbados?
- What is the official language of Barbados?
- Which major festival is celebrated at the end of the sugar cane harvest?
Bonus Questions
- What is the highest point in Barbados?
- What is the national motto of Barbados?
- Who was the first Prime Minister of Barbados?
- What are local bars in Barbados commonly referred to as?
- What was Barbados’ original name given by Portuguese explorers?
Barbados Brainiac Questions
- What was Barbados called by its original Arawak inhabitants?
- Which turtle species is a protected species in Barbados?
Barbados General Knowledge Answers
1. What is the capital city of Barbados?
Answer: Bridgetown – Not only is Bridgetown the capital of Barbados, but it’s also the largest city on the island, bustling with commercial and cultural activity.
2. Which ocean surrounds Barbados?
Answer: Atlantic Ocean – Contrary to popular belief, Barbados is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea, making it unique among Caribbean islands.
3. What is the currency used in Barbados?
Answer: Barbadian Dollar – The currency is pegged to the US Dollar, providing stability and ease of exchange for tourists.
4. Which international superstar hails from Barbados?
Answer: Rihanna – Born in Saint Michael, Barbados, Rihanna has become a global music icon and philanthropist, making her home country proud.
5. What is the national sport of Barbados?
Answer: Cricket – A sport inherited from British rule, cricket is more than just a game in Barbados; it’s a national passion.
6. What is the national dish of Barbados?
Answer: Cou-Cou and Flying Fish – This quintessential Bajan dish consists of cornmeal and okra cooked together, usually served with flying fish on the side.
Would you like to explore the culinary delights of Barbados? Dive into our comprehensive article on the exquisite dining experiences the island has to offer!
7. On which date did Barbados gain independence?
Answer: November 30, 1966 – This is a significant day celebrated annually across the island with various events, parades, and festivities.
8. What is the national flower of Barbados?
Answer: The Pride of Barbados – Also scientifically known as Caesalpinia pulcherrima, this vibrant flower is a symbol of the island’s beauty.
9. What is the official language of Barbados?
Answer: English – Although English is the official language, you’ll often hear the local Bajan dialect spoken among residents.
10. Which major festival is celebrated at the end of the sugar cane harvest?
Answer: Crop Over – This traditional festival dates back to the 1780s and celebrates the end of the sugar cane season with music, dance, and colourful costumes.
Bonus Barbados Answers
1. What is the highest point in Barbados?
Answer: Mount Hillaby – Located in the parish of Saint Andrew, Mount Hillaby stands at approximately 340 metres above sea level. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island.
2. What is the national motto of Barbados?
Answer: “Pride and Industry” – This motto reflects the Barbadian ethos of taking immense pride in one’s work and contributions to the community.
3. Who was the first Prime Minister of Barbados?
Answer: Errol Barrow – Errol Walton Barrow was the first Prime Minister of Barbados and is considered one of the “Founding Fathers” of the country. He led the island to independence from British rule in 1966.
4. What are local bars in Barbados commonly referred to as?
Answer: Rum Shops – These are not just places to get a drink; they are local hangouts where people socialise, discuss daily events, and enjoy Bajan hospitality.
5. What was Barbados’ original name given by Portuguese explorers?
Answer: Os Barbados – The Portuguese name translates to “The Bearded Ones,” which is believed to refer to the island’s indigenous bearded fig trees.
Barbados Brainiac Answers
1. What was Barbados called by its original Arawak inhabitants?
Answer: Ichirouganaim – The island was originally inhabited by Arawak Indians, who called it Ichirouganaim before the arrival of European settlers.
2. Which turtle species is a protected species in Barbados?
Answer: Hawksbill Turtle – These turtles are critically endangered and protected under Barbadian law. They are often spotted during turtle-watching excursions and are cared for in turtle rehabilitation centres across the island.
Famous People from Barbados Quiz
Test your knowledge on famous people from Barbados.
- Who is the Barbadian singer behind hits like “Umbrella” and “Diamonds”?
- Which Barbadian cricketer set a world record for the most Test wickets?
- Who is the Barbadian historian known for works like “A History of Barbados”?
- Which Barbadian athlete is a nine-time gold medallist at the CARIFTA Games?
- Who served as the first female Prime Minister of Barbados?
- Which Barbadian entrepreneur founded the Sandy Lane Charitable Trust to aid underprivileged children?
- Who is the Barbadian economist who has served as a Special Envoy on Climate Change for the United Nations?
- Which Barbadian musician had a hit with the song “Hot, Hot, Hot”?
- Who is a Barbadian historian awarded the Musgrave Medal?
- Who was the leader of the 1816 slave revolt in Barbados?
Bonus Famous Barbadians Questions
- Who is known for their abstract sculptures predominantly using mahogany wood?
- Who designed the Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown, Barbados?
- Which Barbadian author wrote the autobiographical novel “In the Castle of My Skin”?
- Who is a Barbadian linguist best known for his work on Caribbean creole languages?
- Who is a Barbadian musician who was a pioneering figure in the West Indian jazz movement?
Famous Barbadian Brainiac Questions
- Who was the first Barbadian woman to be appointed as a High Court Judge?
- Who is the Barbadian artist responsible for creating the Emancipation Statue, also known as the “Bussa Emancipation Statue”?
Answers to Barbados Famous People Quiz
1. Who is the Barbadian singer behind hits like “Umbrella” and “Diamonds”?
Answer: Rihanna – A Barbadian singer, actress, and businesswoman, Rihanna has gained global recognition for her versatile talents and hits like “Umbrella” and “Diamonds”. She’s also an entrepreneur with her Fenty brand.
2. Which Barbadian cricketer set a world record for the most Test wickets?
Answer: Sir Garfield Sobers – A legendary Barbadian cricketer, Sir Garfield Sobers was not just a superb batsman but also set a world record for the most Test wickets. He is often cited as one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of cricket.
3. Who is the Barbadian historian known for works like “A History of Barbados”?
Answer: Sir Hilary Beckles – An eminent scholar and historian, Sir Hilary Beckles has produced extensive works on Caribbean history, including his noted book “A History of Barbados”. He’s also the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies.
4. Which Barbadian athlete is a nine-time gold medallist at the CARIFTA Games?
Answer: Akela Jones – An outstanding athlete, Akela Jones has earned nine gold medals at the CARIFTA Games, a premier annual athletics competition for Caribbean countries. Her achievements have made her a household name in Barbadian sports.
5. Who served as the first female Prime Minister of Barbados?
Answer: Mia Mottley – Making history in 2018, Mia Mottley became the first female Prime Minister of Barbados. Her tenure has been marked by progressive policies and initiatives aimed at fostering national development.
6. Which Barbadian entrepreneur founded the Sandy Lane Charitable Trust to aid underprivileged children?
Answer: Derrick Smith – A philanthropist at heart, Derrick Smith established the Sandy Lane Charitable Trust to provide aid and educational opportunities for underprivileged children in Barbados.
7. Who is the Barbadian economist who has served as a Special Envoy on Climate Change for the United Nations?
Answer: Elizabeth Thompson – A diplomat and attorney, Elizabeth Thompson has served as a Special Envoy on Climate Change for the United Nations. Her role involved advocating for sustainable environmental policies on a global scale.
8. Which Barbadian musician had a hit with the song “Hot, Hot, Hot”?
Answer: Arrow (Alphonsus Celestine Edmund Cassell) – Known by his stage name Arrow, he achieved international fame with his hit song “Hot, Hot, Hot”, a tune that has become synonymous with Caribbean music and culture.
9. Who is a Barbadian historian awarded the Musgrave Medal?
Answer: Kamau Brathwaite – A poet and academic, Karl Watson was honoured with the Musgrave Medal for his invaluable contributions to Caribbean history and culture.
10. Who was the leader of the 1816 slave revolt in Barbados?
Answer: Bussa – A freedom fighter and national hero, Bussa was the leader of the 1816 slave revolt in Barbados. His courageous actions have made him a symbol of resistance and emancipation in Barbadian history.
Barbados Famous People Bonus Answers
1. Who is known for their abstract sculptures predominantly using mahogany wood?
Answer: Frank Bowling – A versatile artist, Frank Bowling has garnered acclaim for his abstract sculptures crafted from mahogany wood, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Barbados.
2. Who designed the Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown, Barbados?
Answer: Elton Brown – An architect of repute, Elton Brown was the mastermind behind the iconic design of the Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown, a symbol of Barbadian democracy and governance.
3. Which Barbadian author wrote the autobiographical novel “In the Castle of My Skin”?
Answer: George Lamming – A distinguished writer, George Lamming penned the autobiographical novel “In the Castle of My Skin”, which delves into themes of identity and colonialism in the Caribbean.
4. Who is a Barbadian linguist best known for his work on Caribbean creole languages?
Answer: Richard Allsopp – A linguist and scholar, Richard Allsopp is celebrated for his extensive research on Caribbean creole languages, enhancing our understanding of linguistic diversity in the region.
5. Who is a Barbadian musician who was a pioneering figure in the West Indian jazz movement?
Answer: Arturo Tappin – A renowned Barbadian saxophonist, Arturo Tappin has made a name for himself in the world of music with his unique blend of jazz and calypso. His fusion style has earned him accolades and a dedicated following both in Barbados and internationally.
Famous Barbadians Brainiac Answers
1. Who was the first Barbadian woman to be appointed as a High Court Judge?
Answer: Madame Justice Sandra Mason – Breaking barriers in the judiciary, Madame Justice Sandra Mason was the first Barbadian woman to be appointed as a High Court Judge. Her groundbreaking appointment marked a significant step in gender equality within Barbados’ legal system.
2. Who is the Barbadian artist responsible for creating the Emancipation Statue, also known as the “Bussa Emancipation Statue”?
Answer: Karl Broodhagen – Karl Broodhagen was a Barbadian sculptor and artist. He created the Emancipation Statue, commonly referred to as the “Bussa Emancipation Statue,” which commemorates the 1816 slave revolt led by Bussa. The statue is an important symbol of freedom and emancipation in Barbados.
If you enjoyed this quiz, you might also like to explore more about Barbados’ fascinating sea turtles. Check out our articles on swimming with sea turtles in Barbados, turtle nesting season, and turtle rehabilitation centres for a deeper dive!