Cockburn Town Map

Description:

Description:

Cockburn Town is the capital city of the Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean. Located on the western coast of Grand Turk Island, it has a population of approximately 3,700 people. The city was founded in 1766 by British settlers who were drawn to the region's salt production potential.

The city's historical district features well-preserved colonial architecture, including the Victoria Public Library, built in 1889, and the St. Mary's Anglican Church dating back to 1899. The waterfront area, known as Duke Street, is lined with historic buildings and serves as the main commercial center.

Notable attractions include the Turks and Caicos National Museum, which houses artifacts from the Molasses Reef Wreck, the oldest known European shipwreck in the Americas. The Grand Turk Lighthouse, constructed in 1852, stands as a significant landmark and historical monument.

Cockburn Town's economy primarily relies on tourism, government administration, and offshore financial services. The nearby Grand Turk Cruise Center welcomes thousands of visitors annually. The city experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and receives relatively low rainfall compared to other Caribbean destinations. The surrounding waters are known for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, particularly along the coral wall that drops 7,000 feet into the ocean.