Pedro St James (‘Pedro Castle’)

Pedro St James (‘Pedro Castle’)

Step Back in time and experience the history and heritage that blossoms at Pedro St James! Known by locals as ‘Pedro Castle’, this Great House is the oldest surviving stone structure in the Cayman Islands. It is also the “birthplace of democracy”, and home to Cayman’s many cultural and historic tales. Built using slave labour in 1780 by a wealthy Englishman, this home earned its name as a castle due to its sweeping mahogany verandas, sturdy stone walls and slate roof. At a time when most people lived in small thatch houses, and Cayman’s population was just 500 people, this spectacularly built 3-storey home certainly was ‘Cayman’s Castle’. A visit to Pedro St James is always time well spent. Explore the Great House and 18th Century artefacts. Absorb the beauty of the panoramic ocean views, and 7 landscaped acres. Enjoy a 3-D multi-sensory movie that will transport you back in time, and take a guided tour by a local, for a truly authentic experience. Since its construction more than two centuries ago, Pedro St. James has been put to a variety of uses, including a cotton plantation, courthouse, jail, Government Assembly and restaurant, before the Cayman Islands Government finally purchased the property in 1996, and restored it to it’s 18th Century grandeur. Surviving hurricanes, fires, vandalism, and rumours of being both jinxed and haunted, it stands today, in its restored state, as a dynamic piece of Caymanian heritage. Perhaps best known as the “Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands”, Pedro St. James was the venue for a meeting on December 5, 1831 where the decision was made to form the first elected parliament. Later, on May 3, 1835, Robert Thompson, sent from the Governor of Jamaica, held court at Pedro St. James to issue the proclamation ending slavery in the British Empire. This site has been at the centre of pirate raids, tragedy, triumph, and political reformation. Let its history and heritage inspire you on your visit to Pedro St James. Pedro St James also provides a stunning location for weddings, events, and photo opportunities, owing to its expansive grounds, breath-taking backdrops, and rich history. (345) 947-3329 | info@pedrostjames.ky | Facebook: PedroStJames Open daily from 8:30AM – 5:00PM | Last movie showing at 4:00PM Guided tours are available daily from 9AM – 4PM. (Closed on Good Friday & Christmas Day) Phone: 947-9462 • info@pedrostjames.ky | Facebook: PedroStJames Adult Non-Guided Tour: $10 KYD, Adult Guided Tour: $15 KYD, Child (6-12): $5 KYD, Child (0-5): $0 KYD

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