Moore Town
A Windward Maroon settlement at the foot of the Blue Mountains, whose music and traditions are listed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, and where the grave of national heroine Nanny can be visited.
Moore Town is the main settlement of the Windward Maroons, descendants of people who escaped slavery, deep in the Grand River valley. It is backed by the Blue Mountains and the John Crow Mountains, a World Heritage site. In the 18th century, the Maroons used mountain guerrilla tactics to force the British to sign a treaty granting them self-governance. Their female leader, Nanny, is Jamaica's only female national hero, and her grave, Bonnie Hill, is in the town. The Maroon Heritage of Moore Town is listed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. You can book a community guide to learn about the abeng horn, herbal medicine, and history, and hike to nearby waterfalls. It is about 20 kilometers from Port Antonio. The mountain roads are bumpy, so it is best to hire a car and contact your guide in advance.
Opening hours
Daytime; community tours recommended, book in advance
Nearby sights
- Blue Lagoon
- San San Beach
- Frenchman's Cove
- Winnifred Beach
- Errol Flynn Marina & Port Antonio Town
- Boston Bay
- Long Bay
- Folly Mansion Ruins & Folly Point Lighthouse