Government House

This conch-pink Georgian structure atop Mt Fitzwilliam is the official residence of the Bahamas' governor-general. Visitors can walk the grounds, but for a close look at the building you'll need permission and accompaniment from the guards. Twice a month, you can take tea with the governor-general's wife or watch the changing of the guard.

The site has been in government hands since 1799 although governors lived there prior to that time. The original home was built in 1737 by Governor Fitzwilliam (1733-38). A new structure was built in 1806. Additional wings were added during the 20th century, but the entire house was destroyed by a hurricane in 1929. The current building was completed in 1932. The lavish decorations date from 1940, when the Duke of Windsor (the former King Edward VIII) arrived as governor.