Virgin Gorda is the third largest of the four main islands in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). It is located at approximately 18 degrees north latitude and 64 degrees west longitude, covering an area of about eight square miles. Christopher Columbus gave the island its name, which translates to “Fat Virgin,” as he thought its profile on the horizon resembled a reclining woman. The island’s capital is Spanish Town.
History
The earliest settlers of Virgin Gorda were the Ciboney, Arawak, and Carib peoples, who lived on the island during the first millennium AD, relying on fishing and farming. Christopher Columbus was the first recorded European to visit Virgin Gorda in 1493 during his voyage. However, the British Virgin Islands remained largely unsettled by Europeans for a long time. Instead, pirates such as Bluebeard and Captain Kidd took advantage of the island’s strategic location, using its coves as a base for raiding Spanish galleons traveling through the surrounding waters.
Virgin Gorda began developing as a formal settlement when the British took control in the late 17th century. The establishment of sugar plantations led to a population increase, as enslaved Africans were brought in to work on the estates. However, following Britain’s abolition of slavery in 1838, the island faced economic difficulties. It wasn’t until the 20th century that Virgin Gorda saw economic recovery, thanks to tourism and offshore banking, which today play a significant role in the prosperity of the British Virgin Islands.
Tourist Attractions
Virgin Gorda is home to several famous natural and historical landmarks.
One of the most renowned attractions is The Baths, located on the island’s southern end. This geological wonder features enormous granite boulders, remnants of the island’s volcanic history, scattered along the shore. These rock formations create stunning sea caves and sheltered pools. The Baths lead to Devil’s Bay, accessible through a series of ladders and trails weaving between the rocks. Just north of The Baths, Spring Bay is another picturesque location known for its pristine white sand beach.
Another historically significant site is the Old Copper Mine, which has been designated as a national park. While Spaniards were the first Europeans to extract copper in the early 18th century, the site was later developed by Cornish miners in the 1800s, following the decline of copper resources in Cornwall, England. The mine employed around 130 Cornish laborers and their families, but due to rising operational costs and falling copper prices, the mine closed in 1862. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the powerhouse, mine shafts, engine house, chimney, and cisterns, which remain scattered across the area.
Flag and Territorial Symbols
Virgin Gorda, as part of the British Virgin Islands, shares the territorial flag of the BVI. The flag consists of a blue field with the Union Jack in the upper left corner, symbolizing its status as a British Overseas Territory. On the right side of the flag is the coat of arms, which features a green shield with Saint Ursula holding a golden lamp, surrounded by eleven other lamps, representing the legendary 11,000 virgins who accompanied her. The Latin motto “Vigilate” (meaning “Be Watchful”) is inscribed below the shield.
The territorial symbols of the British Virgin Islands include:
- Territorial Bird: The Turtle Dove
- Territorial Flower: The White Cedar (Tabebuia heterophylla), a tree that produces beautiful pink and white blossoms.
- Territorial Tree: The White Cedar, also valued for its strong and durable wood.
- Territorial Dish: Fungi and Fish
- Territorial Colors: Yellow – Representing the rising sun, Green – Representing our verdant hills, Blue – Reflecting our beautiful Caribbean Sea, White – Reflecting our beaches, and, Red – Representing the feisty nature of Virgin Islanders.
- Territorial Music: Fungi Music – Fungi music originated in the Virgin Islands during the era of slavery and was passed down through generations. Following emancipation in 1834, regional scratch (fungi) bands emerged, performing at holidays and festivals. Various forms of scratch (fungi) music developed, including Bamboula, Quelbe, and Cariso (pronounced carry-so).
Virgin Gorda, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage, continues to attract visitors from around the world while maintaining a high standard of living for its residents.