The Museum of Belize is one of Belize’s most unique places for you to learn about our nation’s rich history and cultural heritage. In the facility, you can see many interesting artifacts, including authentic jade pieces, preserved insects, and souvenirs that date back to the days of British Honduras.
The Museum is located in the same compound as The Central Bank of Belize on St. Gabourel Lane in Belize City. It is the only museum in Belize of its kind that focuses on enhancing Belize’s cultural and historic heritage. Interestingly, the museum is a former Her Majesty’s prison and is built from bricks, known as “London Stocks,” that were brought from England.
The Museum of Belize is divided into several exhibits that tell interesting stories about the people that inhabited the British Colony of British Honduras and the different occurrences that have led up to and influenced what Belize is today. There is much to learn inside this unique and historical building. Currently, there are four exhibits inside the Museum of Belize. These would include enSlaved: The Rise and Fall of Slavery in Belize, Insects of Belize, Jades of Belize, and A Call for Artists.
Each exhibit showcases artifacts, souvenirs and displays that are 100% authentic and pristinely preserved. For instance, in the enSlaved: The Rise and Fall of Slavery in Belize exhibit, we were shown the whips that were used to punish law-breakers. Framed on the wall, were several whips, including the Cat O’ Nine Tails – which was used to punish those who were accused of sexual harassment or assault.
Upstairs is where your interest will peak after seeing all the jade pieces that are displayed in their shiny glass cases. All, except one, of the jade pieces in The Museum of Belize are authentic. The only replica that is kept there is a replica of the jade head that was found in Kinich Ahau’s tomb in
Altun Ha Archaeological Site, located right in the outskirts of Belize City. There were so many pieces of jade – handmade masterpieces!
There is also the Insects of Belize exhibition, which is a kids' favorite! There, you can see various insects, ranging from different species of butterflies to spiders and beetles.
Where is The Museum of Belize located?
The Museum of Belize is really accessible to anyone that is living in Belize or visiting Belize. It is just a five-minute walk from the Fort George Memorial Park; and, it only costs a few dollars to enter the museum. For those visiting by cruise ships, you can easily take a tour of the museum with the city tour trollies that are stationed at the Memorial Park. If you would like to see some cool artifacts and learn some interesting information about Belize’s rich history and heritage, then The Museum of Belize is the perfect place for you to do so.
What are the museum opening hours?
Tuesday- Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Sunday/Monday: Closed
What are the museum entrance fees?
Residents: $5 BZD
Non-residents: $10 BZD
Note: On Saturdays, residents enter for free.