Bartica is a small town located in the Essequibo-Pomeroon region of Guyana. It is the administrative capital of the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region and is the gateway to the country’s interior. The town is located at the confluence of the Essequibo and Mazaruni rivers and is the starting point of the Essequibo River expedition. Bartica is a captivating town with a rich history, amazing facts, and plenty of interesting things to do.
History of Bartica
Bartica was originally a small Amerindian settlement known as 'Tukipo' meaning 'meeting of the waters'. The settlement was later taken over by the Dutch in the 17th century and was renamed 'Bartica' after a Dutch sailor named Bart de Vries. The town was an important trading post for the Dutch and was known for its gold and diamond mining. In the 19th century, the British took over the town and it became an important port and trading center.
The town was a major hub for the gold and diamond mining industries, and there was a large influx of people from various parts of the world. This included people from India, China, and the Caribbean. The town was also a major center for the timber and rubber industries. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Bartica was an important center for the transportation of goods and services in the region.
Amazing Facts About Bartica
Bartica is the only town in Guyana that is located at the confluence of two rivers. It is also the only town in Guyana that has a bridge connecting it to the mainland.
Bartica is the only town in Guyana that has an airport. The Bartica Airstrip is located just outside the town and is the only airport in the country that is open to the public.
Bartica is home to the world’s largest gold dredge, the “Big Dipper”. The dredge is located on the banks of the Essequibo River and is a popular tourist attraction.
Bartica is the only town in Guyana with a railway line. The railway line was built in the late 19th century and was used to transport goods and services from the interior of the country to the coast.
Things to Do in Bartica
Bartica is a great place to visit for anyone looking for an exciting and unique experience. Here are some of the best things to do in Bartica:
Visit the Big Dipper: The Big Dipper is the world’s largest gold dredge and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a tour of the dredge and learn about its history and how it was used in the gold and diamond mining industry.
Go Birdwatching: Bartica is a great place for birdwatching as it is home to a variety of species of birds. The town is also located near the Essequibo River, which is home to many species of birds.
Take a Boat Ride: Bartica is located at the confluence of two rivers, the Essequibo and Mazaruni. Visitors can take a boat ride along the rivers to explore the area and enjoy the scenery.
Visit the Bartica Airstrip: The Bartica Airstrip is the only airport in Guyana that is open to the public. Visitors can take a tour of the airstrip and learn about its history and how it was used in the past.
Explore the Town: Bartica is a small town with plenty of interesting sights and attractions. Visitors can explore the town and visit the markets, shops, and other attractions.
Bartica is a captivating town with a rich history, amazing facts, and plenty of interesting things to do. Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or a relaxing getaway, Bartica is sure to have something for everyone.