The Archaeological Ensemble of 17th Century Port Royal is a historic site located in Port Royal, Jamaica, offering insights into urban colonial life. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was inscribed in 2025 and features a unique blend of terrestrial and underwater remains.

Overview

The site comprises the remnants of a once-thriving port city that was devastated by an earthquake in 1692. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved layout of residential, religious, and administrative buildings, showcasing British colonial presence in the Caribbean.

History

Port Royal was a major English port city in the 17th century, featuring a deep-water port and six defensive forts. The town's strategic location at the mouth of Kingston Harbour made it an important hub for transatlantic trade, including the slave trade. According to UNESCO..., the earthquake that struck in 1692 submerged much of the town under water and sand.

Architecture

The site features a distinctive layout of residential, religious, and administrative buildings, offering rare insights into urban colonial life. Unfortunately, no specific details about the architectural style or design are available. However, archaeological evidence suggests that the site reflects British colonial presence in the Caribbean.

Location

The Archaeological Ensemble of 17th Century Port Royal is located at the mouth of Kingston Harbour in southeastern Jamaica. The site's coordinates are 17.9386138889, -76.8433777778.

Religious Significance

Unfortunately, no specific details about the religious significance of the site are available. However, archaeological evidence suggests that the site features a well-preserved layout of residential and administrative buildings.

Notable Artworks and Features

Unfortunately, no specific details about notable artworks or features are available.

Heritage Status

The Archaeological Ensemble of 17th Century Port Royal was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025. The site meets the criteria for listing under (iv)(vi), recognizing its outstanding universal value to humanity.

Visiting Information

Unfortunately, no specific details about visiting information are available. However, visitors can explore the site's terrestrial and underwater remains, offering rare insights into urban colonial life.