Trinidad and Tobago has a rich cultural history, almost as varied as its mouthwatering cuisine. The island country has a long history, one that has seen the islands pass different colonial hands, such as the Spanish and the British.  The natural rock formations of the area and the cultural heritage of the first settlers on island soil, the Amerindians, are also a part of this Caribbean islands’ colourful past. Now mix all this up with stunning art by Trinidadian artists, and you’ve got the culturally rich concoction that makes up the exhibits of the National Museum and Art Gallery of Trinidad and Tobago.

Just south of Queen’s Park Savannah, the museum was created in 1892 in the elegant fashion of the Victorian era colonial style of the British West Indies. The museum is considered a ‘general’ museum that houses over 10,000 items of cultural, historical and artistic nature. The museum was initially built to unite the culture institutions throughout the Commonwealth but today, it is a standing testament to the history and culture of the island country.

There are seven exhibits with beautiful and fascinating items, artwork and information on display for the avid culture vulture to absorb within the white walls of this beautiful building:

• Surround yourself with the beauteous brushstrokes of Trinidadian artists, and reflect upon the evolving culture and landscapes depicted upon these canvases. Besides this art exhibit, there’s a separate gallery dedicated to the 19th century artist Michel Jean Cazabon and yet another gallery showcasing the multi coloured splendor of carnival art.
• The Social and Natural History exhibits inform us all about the social evolution of the islanders, from the time of tribes, through and post colonialism, and today. It also focuses on the islands vastly diverse social and cultural composition, which is as fascinating as it is colourful.
• Did you know that Trinidad and Tobago were once filled with small villages, which then turned into larger city areas and industrial zones? With the help of the oil industry, the small island nation grew in economic strength, and this, amongst other economic accomplishments, is what is well depicted in the Economic History display.
• In the Petroleum and Geology exhibit, we take a closer look at the rocks that make up the earth you’ll soon be standing upon, and the black gold that lay beneath.

• The National Museum has two smaller branch museums.  Fort San Andres is located on South Quay, opposite City Gate in Port of Spain, and is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday, except public holidays. 
• The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Museum is located at the Old Police Headquarters on St. Vincent Street in Port of Spain, and is open 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Tuesday and Saturday, except public holidays.
• The art section is currently closed (September 2014).

• There is a bus to the Savannah Park.

• Jenny’s on the Boulevard (Asian, Pacific)
• The Carlton Savannah

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