Archbishop's House, Port of Spain

The Archbishop's House, in the heart of Port of Spain, is a historic and architectural treasure in Trinidad and Tobago. Renowned for its Victorian charm intertwined with Spanish influences, the house serves as a symbol of the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Constructed between 1903 and 1904, it was commissioned by Archbishop Patrick Vincent Flood and built by George Brown of the Trinidad Trading Company. The building's origins align with the era when the nearby "Magnificent Seven" residences were erected, reflecting the opulence of wealthy French Creoles in the area.

Designed by an Irish architect in the Indian Empire style, the Archbishop's House originally featured a chapel and sacristy on the first floor, along with a summer house and stables accessible via an extended gallery on the west side. The striking façade is adorned with a wraparound porch, a porte-cochère with wide bays, and numerous additional bays on its eastern, western, southern, and northern sides.

In 1968–1969, the house underwent extensive remodeling under the architectural guidance of Sonny Sellier. While retaining much of its historical character, the renovations introduced a chancery on the west side and replaced the summer house and stables with a modern apartment. Some changes, such as the substitution of double wooden doors with sliding aluminum ones, marked a departure from the original design. Following the completion of these updates, Monsignor Anthony Pantin, the first Trinidadian-born Archbishop, made the house his official residence.

Today, the Archbishop's House stands as a well-maintained landmark and the official residence of the Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Church of Port of Spain. Visitors are drawn to its serene gardens, intricate design, and rich history. Guided tours provide insights into its architectural evolution and its role in the spiritual life of Trinidad and Tobago's Catholic community. Whether admired for its architectural beauty or its cultural significance, the Archbishop's House remains a must-visit destination for those exploring Port of Spain.