The town, which was founded in 1628 and originally called Indian Bridge, provoked considerable criticism from early visitors because of its situation by a noxious swamp and its unplanned development. The name St. Michael's Town came into favour about 1660 and remained in use into the 19th century. Much of the town was destroyed repeatedly by fires, and in 1854 a cholera epidemic killed some 20,000 people.

Bridgetown is a crowded and picturesque mixture of the old and new. St. Michael's Anglican Cathedral was built of coral rock, largely from the proceeds of a lottery to replace a building destroyed in a hurricane of 1780. Across Trafalgar Square (with a statue of the English admiral Lord Nelson) lies the Careenage, a narrow basin of the sea (also called the Constitution River) that houses dry docks and wharves. The Constitution River and the remnants of the swamp were filled in during 1962 and replaced with a canal. A deepwater harbour for commercial shipping, lying 0.75 mile (1.2 km) to the northwest, became operational in 1961.

Government House dates from the early 18th century, and large modern ministerial buildings are by the shores of Carlisle Bay. Other notable landmarks include the Savannah, once the garrison parade ground, now used for race meetings and other gatherings; and Queen's Park, with its tropical vegetation. Bridgetown is the seat of Codrington College (affiliated with the University of Durham in England).

Sugar refining and rum distilling, together with the port activity and a growing tourist trade, constitute the town's economic mainstays. Pop. (1985 est.) 7,466.

Barbados Arts and Crafts
Barbados has a tradition of great art. From fashion and cloth painting to fine art, pottery and basket weaving. When you get to Bridgetown, you have to explore the Barbados artists and their art.

Barbados Black Culture
Trace the Roots of a proud and determined people. A nation of predominantly black African heritage. A people who have risen above the past and have taken their place as leaders in a prosperous, well governed and racially integrated island state. No mater what colour or creed you are, you will find your visit to Bridgetown uplifting and educational.

Heritage of the sugar barons
It was born from sugar and rum. In the days when pirates roamed the sea. A history rich in wealth and folklore. Of stately plantations, Jacobean and Georgian architecture set amid the chattel houses of the farmer's help. Here you will see this heritage and hear stories of the people who lived in the traditions of the past.