The 10 Most Iconic Houses in Jamaica

From historical architectural gems to modern displays of wealth, Jamaica is filled with iconic homes that have garnered the attention of many. This top-ten list of iconic Jamaican houses was curated by Yardhype, based on their popularity and relevance in 2024.

This list is in no particular order. The list features, Mavado’s house, Elephant Man’s house, Rose Hall Great House, Jamaica House, The Crown House, Devon House, Bob Marley Museum, Giddy House, Trident Castle and King’s House.

1. Mavado’s ‘Gully Side’ Mansion

Born David Constantine Brooks, Mavado rose to Dancehall stardom with his lyrical prowess. Originally from humble beginnings in the Kingston community of Cassava Piece, the deejay went on to acquire a large property in the Norbrook community, estimated to be worth $500 million.

In 2022, Mavado gave fans a brief look at some of the lavish interiors of his multi-story home on the hillside.

2. Elephant Man’s Mansion in the Hills of St. Andrew

Before garnering success in Dancehall, veteran artiste Elephant Man was known simply as O’Neil Bryan. Known as the ‘Energy God,’ Elephant Man became one of several Dancehall veterans to rise to success from the community of Seaview Gardens, Kingston, and the deejay has been using his acquired wealth to work on his hillside home over several years.

The Bun Bad Mind artiste frequently showcases the 12,000-square-foot property where he resides, which offers a great view of Kingston and St. Andrew. The property features ten bedrooms, ten bathrooms, a home gym, a private disco club, an outdoor bar, a pond, a pool, and a jacuzzi.

3. Rose Hall Great House

Located in Montego Bay, Rose Hall features both an impressive history as well as beautiful architecture. One of the several plantation great houses on the island, Rose Hall, was built in the Jamaican Georgian style, which was popular in the country between c. 1750 and c. 1850.

Now a historic house museum that attracts tourists from around the world, the home was once owned by Englishman John Rose Palmer in the 1800s. The great house’s most notorious resident is undoubtedly Palmer’s wife, Annie Palmer, who is known as the White Witch of Rose Hall.

According to local legend, Annie Palmer still haunts the halls of the great house, which has garnered both local and international interest.

4. Jamaica House

As Jamaica transitioned from a colony of the British Empire to an independent nation, the government sought an adequate residence for the prime minister. Jamaica House was later approved for construction in 1963 by the House of Representatives, and 30 acres of King’s House land were allocated for the property at the cost of $110,000.

Following approval for the building, Jamaica House was designed by architect Lloyd Shearer and consists of a two-story main building as well as outbuildings. Some of the residents of Jamaica House have included Jamaica’s first Prime Minister, Sir Alexander Bustamante, and Michael Manley, who resided on the property with their families.

5. The Crown House

The Crown House, located in the corporate area, is one of several lavish modern homes in Jamaica’s lush and coveted hillside landscapes. A section of the house features a unique architectural build that resembles a crown, thus its name.

Also notably unique is one of the two outdoor pools that are located on the property, as it was seemingly built in the fashion of a large bowl-like vessel.

6. Devon House

Like Rose Hall, Devon House has a rich history and is one of the country’s most beloved locations. The expansive property was formerly the residence of George Stiebel, who is believed to be Jamaica’s first millionaire of African descent.

Devon House was built in 1881 and was very nearly demolished in 1965. However, the property was purchased by the government and later declared a National Heritage Site. While the main house is operated as a museum, the property features several popular eateries and stores.

7. Bob Marley Museum

Once the home of legendary Jamaican Reggae singer Bob Marley, The Bob Marley Museum offers both local and international fans and Reggae enthusiasts a unique experience. Located at 56 Hope Road in Kingston, the popular tourist stop was also once home to Marley’s Tuff Gong record label.

The property features a 19th-century design and was converted into a museum by Marley’s wife and I Threes singer Rita Marley after his death.

8. Giddy House

Originally a Royal Artillery House built in 1880, Giddy House is one of multiple buildings affected by the catastrophic earthquake that struck Jamaica’s former capital, Port Royal, in 1907.

Unlike many of the buildings that were lost in the earthquake, Giddy House only partially sank. Now a popular tourist attraction, the small structure is famous for the light-headed sensation it is said to have on visitors, from which it derives its name.

9. King’s House

Located in Jamaica’s capital city, King’s House was originally built as the residence of the representative of the British monarch, the governor-general. In addition to now being used as the office of the governor-general, the property is also used for state and ceremonial functions, such as the Ceremony of Investiture and the Presentation of National Honours and Awards.

10. Trident Castle

Built on a picturesque seven-acre property in Port Antonio, Trident Castle has become a popular destination for lavish weddings and parties. In addition to its manicured lawns and stunning all-white architectural design, Trident offers a mesmerising view of the Caribbean Sea.

Some of the guests that have enjoyed the luxurious Jamaican residence include Beyoncé and Tom Cruise.